6 Things That Can Make or Break Your Relationship

It may sound crazy, but even after years of living together, many couples don’t know how to communicate effectively. It’s not for lack of trying, as everyone wants to be heard and understood, but the way you deliver your message. The “how” trumps the “what” more often than you think.

Small missteps in tone, timing, and word choice can lead to defensiveness, shutdowns, and even long-term damage. Here are six of the most common communication pitfalls that can ruin a relationship—and what to do instead.

1. Avoid Using Absolute Language

Words like “never” and “always” are always an exaggeration, and your partner knows it. Telling someone, “You never listen!” is likely to trigger defensiveness rather than reflection. Even if you have a valid point, phrasing it this way causes the other person to shut down or fight back. And don’t you ever use “everyone/no one else” to support your argument. Instead, consider expressing something like, “If I don’t receive a response from you, I sense that I’m not receiving enough attention. Can we try it again?” That shift from accusation to curiosity paves the way for a fruitful discussion.

2. Don’t Start With “You” When Offering Criticism

When you begin a sentence with “you,” the brain automatically prepares for an attack. It’s a defense mechanism. Instead of saying, “You always embarrass me when you drink,” focus on your own feelings. Say, “I feel disconnected when we go out and things get too wild. I miss how we are when we’re just being close.” Framing things from your perspective helps keep the other person from getting defensive and encourages collaboration instead of conflict.

3. Don’t Use “Scorched Earth” Language

Saying things like “I’m done!” or “I want a divorce!” in the heat of the moment might feel cathartic, but it’s often a point of no return. Even if you don’t mean it, those words create fear and insecurity. It’s a quick way to plant seeds of resentment and emotional detachment unless that’s precisely what you want. If you’re feeling very upset, it might be helpful to take a break. Walk away. Calm down. Then, come back with something like, “I need time to cool off before we talk.”