Love & Marriage

Listening without defensiveness is one of the simplest ways to build trust—and one of the hardest when emotions run high. It’s about setting ego aside and giving your partner space to express themselves fully, even if it stings a little. Here's what that kind of listening looks like in practice:

• Pause your reflex to respond. Instead of jumping to defend or explain, just hear them out.

• Validate their feelings. Even if you see things differently, showing that you understand their emotional experience can be healing.

• Ask curious, open-ended questions. It shifts the tone from confrontation to exploration.

• Breathe. Literally. A deep breath before you speak can stop defensiveness from hijacking the moment.

Tips to improving your communication skills in your relationship: