5 WAYS TO MAKE YOUR PARTNER FEEL HEARD

Top tips to hear your partner out.

---

Effective communication is key to a healthy relationship, and truly listening to your partner is an essential part of that. In honour of the International Day of Listening on 19 September, here are five ways to make your partner feel truly heard and understood.

1. PRACTISE ACTIVE LISTENING
Active listening goes beyond just hearing words – it involves fully engaging with what your partner is saying. Put away distractions, make eye contact, and nod or offer verbal affirmations like “I understand” or “tell me more.” This shows that you’re genuinely interested in their thoughts and feelings.

@racheldealto Active listening is a superpower #activelistening #listening #communicationskills ♬ original sound - Rachel DeAlto

2. REFLECT BACK WHAT YOU HEAR
One powerful way to show you’re listening is by reflecting on what your partner has said. This doesn’t mean simply repeating their words, but rather summarising their key points and emotions. For example, “It sounds like you’re feeling frustrated because…” This helps ensure you’re on the same page and makes your partner feel validated.

3. ASK OPEN-ENDED QUESTIONS
Encourage your partner to share more by asking open-ended questions that invite deeper conversation. Instead of asking yes or no questions, try something like, “How did that make you feel?” or “What do you think we should do next?” This allows your partner to express themselves fully.

@racheldealto Active listening is a superpower #activelistening #listening #communicationskills ♬ original sound - Rachel DeAlto

4. AVOID INTERRUPTING
Interrupting can make your partner feel dismissed or unheard. Practise patience by letting them finish their thoughts before you respond. If you’re tempted to jump in, take a deep breath and remind yourself that listening is about understanding, not just waiting for your turn to speak.

5. SHOW EMPATHY
Empathy is about putting yourself in your partner’s shoes and understanding their perspective. Even if you don’t agree with everything they say, showing that you respect their feelings can strengthen your bond. Phrases like, “I can see why you’d feel that way” or “That sounds really tough” can go a long way.

@drwyattfisher 5 empathy statements to master! Remember, only provide empathy when your partner is venting and only give advice if they ask for it! 🚩Share this with others!🚩 #communicationskills #empathy #listening #relationshipadvice #marriageadvice #healthyrelationships #happymarriage ♬ original sound - Dr. Wyatt: Marriage Advice