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PIOUSPIUS Be Positive, use I statements, Be Understanding, Accept and Share responsibility. Positive Communication Four important areas of interpersonal communication are often abandoned when relationships run into hard times. Both parties tend to stop using statements that are Positive, begin with “I”, express Understanding, and demonstrate a willingness to Share responsibility for the situation. The acronym PIUS can be used to help remember how to get our communication back on track. Be POSITIVE. Include positive comments in your conversation (and avoid negative comments). This not only helps the listener but helps you remember that you do appreciate something about the other person. Think of something that you really like about them or just tell them you love them. Become conscious of those things that you tend to communicate in a negative way and reframe them using positive phrasing. (I.e. say what you want, not what you don’t want) Use “I” statements. The “I” statement is one of the best communication tools that we have. It helps us to speak to another person in a way that communicates our needs or wishes without blaming or criticizing the other person. When others feel blamed or criticized, they usually become defensive. (see Exercise - *I* Statements) “I feel”. When you communicate your feelings you have a choice. Blaming your Loved One (e.g., “You make me so mad”. “You always make me sad”.) will put them on the defensive. Accept responsibility for your feelings when communicating with your LO. Let your LO know what you would like from them in place of a current behavior. Make your request reasonable and something your LO can actually do. (E.g., “I would like it if you could call me if you will be late for dinner.” “I would like it if we could spend time together going to the movies or out to eat.”) Be UNDERSTANDING. Show your LO that you care about them and respect them enough to try to understand their point of view (even if you do not agree with it). LISTEN to them. Really listen. Ask questions; reflect back what you hear in a non judgmental tone. Understanding your LO’s point of view will make it easier for you to find some common ground When you show that you are trying to understand something about another person, they are more likely to accept that you have something important to share with them. Accept and SHARE responsibility. Neither one of you is perfect. Understanding and acknowledging your part in the problem goes a long way in breaking out of the pattern of conflict. |