Set aside brief moments specifically designated for non-task conversation. These don’t need to be lengthy—even 15 minutes can be effective if they’re regular and protected from interruptions. Framing it as a specific “appointment” can make it more approachable for someone who organizes life around schedules.
When expressing emotions, be clear and specific rather than expecting the other person to infer your feelings. Statements like “I feel disconnected when we only talk about household tasks” or “I feel appreciated when you asked about my meeting today” provide concrete information without blame.
For practically-minded individuals, connecting emotions to outcomes they value can increase engagement. For example, “When we take time to check in with each other emotionally, I think we work better as a team” or “I’ve noticed our problem-solving improves when we first talk about how we’re feeling about the situation.”
These techniques work because they create a structured approach to emotional communication that respects the practically-oriented person’s preferences while still addressing deeper connection needs. By making emotional conversations more concrete and demonstrating their practical value, you build a bridge between different communication styles.
Remember Boundaries
These strategies focus on creating opportunities for connection, not forcing someone to communicate in ways that feel deeply uncomfortable. Progress often comes gradually, and respect for different communication styles should remain a priority.
See also: Understanding Emotion Bypass and Tip: Communicating About Sensitive Topics
