by Joan Inong

Created on: June 22, 2009

Expression in a relationship is important. People who cannot express themselves, especially in relationships, find that they have a difficult time understanding other people. It takes two people to communicate, and if one person isn't communicating well or effectively, then the relationship will suffer for it.

People who are afraid of expressing themselves usually have other insecurities that lead to that problem. For instance, naturally shy people will tend to have a difficulty expressing themselves. And, those who feel as if they don't have good social skills will prevent themselves from expressing themselves fully.

Shy people and those with low self-esteem, however, can get themselves out of this rut. First, they should try to improve their confidence. They can do so by taking classes, trying to make new friends, getting a physical make-over, or just practicing speaking in front of the mirror.

If you have a hard time finding the right words, then just remember to think before you speak. Form your words inside your mind before you speak, so that you can have time to review and edit them. This way, you will find yourself correcting your words less and less, and you won't have time to feel embarrassed or self-conscious.

Expressing yourself is important in a relationship because it allows you to communicate effectively. And, communication is one of the most important keys to keeping a relationship strong and healthy. When people don't communicate well, their relationship will suffer.

Fear of expressing yourself comes from lack of confidence. Think of your opinions as valuable, and your partner will think of them as valuable, too. Even if you stumble in what you say, the important part is that you are trying to communicate as best as you can. Take a few deep breaths, look at the bridge of your partner's nose (not directly in the eyes), and say what you feel. If you can't say what you feel, then write it down.

But, fear of expressing yourself to another may be natural if you haven't been in a serious relationship before. If you have no practice in expressing yourself to others, then you will certainly have a difficult time expressing yourself to a loved one. But, always remember that if your partner truly cares for you, he or she will try to understand why you have a difficult time expressing yourself. And, he or she will try to work with you in improving the way you communicate.

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