Relationship expert, Norene Gonsiewski, shares the five must-do rules for great communication.    Norene has been working with individuals, couples, families and groups for over two decades.  Norene is a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist and is a dynamic and insightful group and workshop leader.

Norene's Tips:
1. When your partner wants to talk to you, hush up so they can open up. Open Ears and Heart. Both partners ask permission to talk and ask if this is a good time.
2. Asking for what you need: When you are the speaker and want to share a hurt, concern or need, do so with out Shame, Blame or Criticism.
3. When you are the listener: Make it safe for partner to ask for what they need or say how they feel.
4. Before you Respond: Thank partner for sharing & validate. Now ask if they can hear your response.
5. If you respond, stay on the same topic!

4 Behaviors to Avoid:
1. Don’t Interrupt.
2. Don’t make assumptions.
3. Don’t show contempt.
4. Do not become defensive.