Communication can be much less stressful when both parties feel respected. One way to show respect in communication is to use I-Statements. I have heard some describe just using the word “I” in a person’s statement but I would suggest following a stricter pattern. It will help each party be more empowered to take ownership for themselves and their thoughts and feelings. Accepting responsibility for your feelings is one of the most important communication skills you can acquire. A good rule of thumb is: “If you have a problem, make an I-Statement.
Avoiding words like “make me” will also help a person take more responsibility for his/her behavior.
A pattern like the one below, will help the person understand what behavior they displayed that impacted the communicator and how that happened:
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