This is an important part of relationships, both romantic and platonic, that often gets overlooked. It is a small skill that you can begin developing at any time, and we can help you! Being open can play a role in developing healthy relationships due to the level and quality of communication between those involved.
But what does it actually mean to be ‘open’?
Openness refers to communication, someone who is open will find communicating a little easier. This communication however, needs to be more than just quick chats about the weather or what you will be making for lunch that day. It is more about deeper, personal thoughts. This is why it is important in a relationship as it can develop closeness between partners when these personal thoughts are shared.
Getting deep can involve talking about your true inner feelings, your emotions that day or just what you are thinking about internally. This is not always easy, especially within newer relationships so do not worry if this is not something you master right away. It takes effort from both sides.
Being open can also help to build stronger connections as well as develop emotional bonds between partners. This is also linked to growing emotional intimacy, this level of intimacy develops as both partners feel safe expressing themselves with each other. It can start off small, just discussing how you feel at that particular moment all the way up to more deeper feelings that can make you feel vulnerable to share.
These expressions can show transparency to your partner, which shows you trust them and that importantly, they can trust you. Once this is achieved both partners can use their communication skills to face any number of problems or issues together.
Some ways you can begin being more open with those around you is to ask more open-ended questions, show you are interested in others and their lives. Open-ended questions allow for more depth than just a ‘yes’ / ‘no’, letting the other person more opportunities to share with you.
This skill doesn't come instantly, as mentioned previously, it can take some work on both sides. It can be helpful to set some time aside to talk to those who you wish to become more open with. Find a time frame and space that works for you both, that could be a 10-minute phone call where you talk about your feelings that day or an hour-long session in-person where you discuss more in-depth topics.
If this sounds like something you would like to learn more about, you can take part in our “Learning to Open Up in Relationships” program. This 7-day program will guide you through some simple activities to help you on your way. Sign up to get involved!
References
Amaral, R. (2023, May 6). Being More Open in Your Relationships. Psychology For Growth. https://psychologyforgrowth.com/2023/05/06/being-more-open-in-your-relationships/
Mackler, C. (n.d.). 5 Easy Ways To Communicate Better in Your Relationship. Onelove. https://www.joinonelove.org/learn/5-easy-ways-to-communicate-better-in-your-relationships/
The We Spot. (2024, October 30). Speaking Your Heart: Open Communication Is The Secret To A Happy Relationship. The We Spot. https://thewespot.com/happy-relationship/