7 habits of people who communicate better in relationships after 50

My mother used to say, “After 50, you don’t lose your mind, you just start speaking it.” And goodness, how right she was.

It turns out, the golden years can also be the golden age for communication in relationships. You might be thinking, “But isn’t it true that communication gets harder as we age?” Well, surprise – it’s not.

In fact, many people find that their ability to communicate with their partners improves significantly once they hit the big 5-0. But how? What’s the secret?

Turns out, there are common habits among those who hit their stride in relationship communication after 50. While age brings wisdom and experience, it also brings about a shift in perspective and approach to conversations that can be game-changing for relationships.

So if you’re curious about the “7 habits of people who communicate better in relationships after 50”, buckle up. Whether you’re nearing that mark, or have already crossed it, you might just find some wisdom to apply in your own relationships.

Remember: age doesn’t fade our voices, it amplifies them. Let’s dive into how.

1) They listen more than they speak

You know that old saying, “We have two ears and one mouth so we can listen twice as much as we speak?” It seems those over 50 have really taken it to heart.

While the young often rush to fill silences, those who communicate better after 50 have learned the value of quiet. They understand that listening isn’t just about being quiet while the other person talks. It’s about truly hearing what’s being said – and what’s not being said.

Listening allows for deeper understanding. It opens up space for empathy, compassion, and connection. It shows respect and validates the other person’s feelings and experiences.

So next time you’re in a conversation, try taking a page from their book: Pause, breathe, listen. You might be surprised by what you learn.

2) They aren’t afraid to express their feelings

I remember a conversation with my aunt who’s in her late 60s. We were talking about her relationship with her husband, and she said something that’s stayed with me. “When we were younger, we used to dance around our feelings a lot. But now, if something bothers me, I just say it. And he does the same.”

This openness, this willingness to express feelings is a common trait among those who communicate better in relationships after 50. Gone are the days of keeping things bottled up for fear of conflict or upsetting the other person.

They understand that expressing their feelings isn’t just about venting. It’s about sharing their inner world with their partner, allowing for a deeper level of connection and understanding.

My aunt’s words taught me a valuable lesson: Expressing your feelings isn’t a sign of weakness, but of strength and trust in your relationship.

3) They embrace vulnerability

There’s something about crossing the 50-year threshold that seems to peel back layers of pretense. It’s as if, with age, there’s a newfound freedom in letting down our guards and embracing the beauty of raw authenticity.

The people I’ve met who communicate better in relationships after 50, they’ve let go of the need to always appear ‘perfect’. They’ve realized that it’s okay to be seen without all the answers, to admit when they’re wrong, to say sorry when they mess up.

And you know what? It’s actually quite liberating.

By embracing vulnerability, they’re not showing their weaknesses; rather, they’re illuminating their strength. They’re demonstrating their courage to expose their true selves, regardless of judgment or criticism.

So here’s to showing up, raw and unfiltered. Here’s to embracing vulnerability in relationships. It might just be one of the most freeing things you’ll ever do.

4) They prioritize clarity over assumptions

As we age, we learn the hard way that assumptions can lead to misunderstandings, hurt feelings, and even ruin relationships. Those who communicate better in relationships after 50 have learned to prioritize clarity over assumptions.

They’ve realized the importance of seeking clarification when something is unclear. Instead of filling in the blanks with their own assumptions, they ask questions. They seek to understand before jumping to conclusions.

This habit reduces the chances of misunderstandings and fosters open, honest communication. It shows a willingness to understand the other person’s perspective and creates a safe space for dialogue.

So next time you’re unsure about something, don’t assume. Ask. Seek clarity. It can make all the difference in your relationships.

5) They practice patience

Patience is often associated with waiting, but it’s so much more than that. It’s about understanding that not everything needs to be resolved immediately. It’s about giving people the space and time to express themselves without feeling rushed.

Those who communicate better in relationships after 50 have mastered this art. They’ve realized that some conversations require time to unfold.

Interestingly, a study found that people tend to become more patient as they age. This increased patience can greatly improve communication in relationships, allowing for a more thoughtful and understanding exchange.

So remember, patience isn’t just about waiting—it’s about creating space for meaningful communication.

6) They use words as bridges, not barriers

Words are powerful. They can build or destroy. They can bring us closer or push us apart. Those who communicate better in relationships after 50 have learned to use words as bridges, not barriers.

They’ve learned to speak with kindness, even during disagreements. They’ve understood that it’s possible to stand their ground without hurting the other person. They’ve realized that criticism can be constructive, and feedback can be given with love.

This approach isn’t about sugarcoating the truth. It’s about respecting the other person’s feelings and delivering messages in a way that nurtures, rather than hurts.

So remember, words can be a bridge to understanding and connection. Use them wisely.

7) They understand that communication is a two-way street

Those who communicate better in relationships after 50 know that good communication is not just about talking. It’s equally, if not more, about listening.

They’ve learned that in relationships, communication is a two-way street. It requires active listening, empathy and reciprocal sharing. It’s about understanding and being understood.

They don’t just wait for their turn to speak. They genuinely listen to what the other person is saying, and respond in a way that shows they’ve heard and understood.

So remember, good communication isn’t just about getting your point across—it’s about understanding the other person’s point of view too.

Wrapping it up

If you’ve found yourself nodding along to these habits, it’s clear that age does not hinder communication. Quite the contrary, it enhances it.

But remember, it’s never too late or too early to start implementing these practices in your own relationships. These habits aren’t exclusive to those over 50—they’re timeless principles that can improve communication at any age.

Start by observing your current communication patterns. Are you truly listening or just waiting for your turn to speak? Are you expressing your feelings with kindness and clarity? Are you showing patience and understanding?

Challenging our own habits can be uncomfortable, but it’s through this discomfort that we grow. Each small step towards better communication is a victory to be celebrated.

Remember, communication isn’t a one-time act—it’s a lifelong practice. It takes time, patience, and conscious effort. But the rewards—a deeper understanding of others, more meaningful relationships, and an enriched life—are well worth the effort.

So as we wrap this up, take a moment to reflect on your own communication habits. How can you apply these principles in your relationships? What small steps can you take today to communicate better?

Every journey begins with a single step. Let’s make that first step together.