1 Question your assumptions about other person

Perhaps breakdown in communication is based on rumors that have no basis in reality. You may be unfairly judging other person and filtering every word he speaks because of a false image of who he really is.

Have you ever harshly judged someone and found out later you were completely in wrong? Make sure you are not making same mistake again.

2 Ask for clarification

Ask other person to fill in gaps that are causing you to lose your grasp on train of thought.

Asking questions demonstrates your interest in a positive outcome and is to be encouraged. Never worry about looking stupid for asking for more information. The smartest people value information and are always ready to ask for more.

3 Are you really listening?

Check that you are really paying attention and not just pretending to be. Change your posture, pay close attention to how other person is talking and demand more of yourself.

Become more attentive simply by choosing to be.

4 Address issue directly

Now take a moment to learn three ways to have low stress communication.

1 Recognize Positive Intentions

When someone you are talking to is unkind, negative or downright rude it is easy to get annoyed, angry and even aggressive.

However this will just makes situation worse and even faster than you can imagine.

There is a better way. Instead look for positive intention of person you are talking to. What do I mean?

Ask yourself -- what is positive intention behind this behavior?

If person you are talking to is angry maybe positive intention is to express some hurt or frustration. What is important is looking for a positive not to get correct answer.

When you assume person has a positive message hidden underneath negative exterior you will have more compassion and patience and you will not feel so stressed dealing with individual.

2 Choose Your Own Emotional State

I talk a lot about importance of managing your emotional state. Why? Because it is an essential life skill.