MFP 369: Marriages Don't Accidentally Communicate Well

You can't have a healthy relationship if you don't develop the skill of communication.

Summary

Marriage doesn't drift into great communication. You have to make the time and practice on purpose. In this episode, we share simple, realistic tools to help couples break bad habits and start talking in ways that actually bring them closer. You'll learn how to listen without fixing, reduce daily stress through connection and fun, and build rituals that create space for meaningful conversation. We talk about appreciation, gentle ways to start hard conversations, and why prayer changes everything. These aren't abstract ideas, they're practical habits you can try tonight. If your conversations feel rushed, tense, or nonexistent, this episode will give you hope and a clear path forward. Strong communication is possible, and it's one of the greatest investments you can make in your marriage. This episode accompanies MFP 368 Couple Communication in a Frantic Family!

Key Takeaways

• Take time to practice active listening daily. Quietly receive your spouse's stress of the day (not in your relationship) without comments, only questions to deepen your understanding.

• Create and practice Rituals of Connection. Rituals have a structure, a beginning and an end. You should have short daily rituals like sitting on the couch, time alone after dinner, or meaningful conversation after bedtime.

• Make sure to include stress-reducing conversations! Not every conversation needs to be intense. Create some boundaries and be sure to include some fun!

• Give each other appreciation. Gratitude is the key to happiness. Make sure your spouse knows how important they are to you.

• Practice the gentle start-up when relationship conversations need to happen. Always keep in mind how to best communicate so your spouse can receive your words.

• Pray together. Never forget that God is committed to your marriage and will give you all you need to succeed in communication!

Couple Discussion Questions

• When can we have one daily stress-reducing conversation?.

• List 5 things you admire about your partner and share them.

Resources

• 10 Communication Exercises

• https://www.gottman.com/blog/10-communication-exercises-for-couples-to-have-better-relationships/

• Guide to Communication: https://messyfamilyproject.org/guide/communication/