Do you know this effect: your man says something and you don't understand a word? It's as if you were speaking two completely different languages. The problems don't take long to show up. Of course, this doesn't only happen in relationships. The same, or at least something similar, can be seen at work, among friends or with acquaintances. It's simply what we call a communication problem. But that is no reason to despair. With good will and a few tried-and-tested methods, you can find one or two effective ways to work through it. What matters most is the willingness to actually want to understand the other person. Everything else will follow, and a touch of patience often goes a very long way. Don't put yourself under pressure - after all, nobody learns a foreign language in a single day either.

Understanding men
Understanding men

Not always easy - men and relationships

Understanding men is a challenge, just like understanding the people around you in general. So:
1. Listen
2. Let him finish
3. Think it over
4. Respond to what was said
5. Work on understanding and don't give up

Do you understand men?
At some point, probably everyone finds that they simply don't understand the person across from them. The reasons are many: convoluted wording, deliberate denial or a different point of view. Who can honestly claim to understand everything all the time? Life would be dull and monotonous if you did. Just be careful not to generalize. There is no such thing as "men" as a group that can't be understood. Communication styles and emotional lives differ greatly from one man to the next. So if you don't understand one particular man, or never have, that of course doesn't apply to the entire male world.

This is why it's worth trying to understand men:

  • a different perspective on certain issues broadens your horizons
  • it prevents differences, friction and arguments
  • misunderstandings get cleared up
  • in romantic relationships it builds trust
  • understanding is always a good counselor

It's the journey that counts
Even if you occasionally don't understand him - be tolerant and a little forgiving. It isn't always about the really big problems that need to be talked through at length. Men sometimes don't like talking about their feelings. The answers come out short, and the delivery may not be especially charming. Still, you won't want to miss your "conversations together." Tune in to the person across from you. If in doubt, ask, and don't make a scene. After all, men sometimes have trouble understanding women, too. Mutual understanding is still the best counselor here. Besides, not everyone is a master of communication. Pay attention to non-verbal communication as well. Facial expressions and gestures are often far more helpful than a thousand words.