Improving Communication in Marriage

From "How to Build a Lasting Marriage" by Elmer and Ruth Towns, here are several steps to improving communication in your marriage (page 21):

1. Give each other an opportunity to talk but don't push when he/she is not ready.
2. Find the best time to communicate.
3. Don't judge your spouse. This can shut down conversation.
4. It's okay to disagree but be kind and respectful. Don't use sarcasm.
5. We all want to be understood so we should try to understand.
6. Don't jump to conclusions. Be patient and listen.
7. Give your spouse your undivided attention when he/she is trying to communicate something to you.

And this (page 25):
It takes two to communicate and two to quarrel.
It doesn't really matter who is at fault.
Remember the power of two.
Begin sharing ideas and dreams.
Approach your problems as one.