Trying to express your thoughts and needs to somebody who just doesn’t get it can be very frustrating. You may supress your feelings or blow a gasket, neither of which is good for your mental state or physical health. With some effective skills to handle your emotions, you can resolve differences, build trust and respect, and create a positive environment that breeds creativity, productivity and success.

Effective communication is a combination of skills that includes listening, recognizing nonverbal signals, managing stress in the moment, and staying connected to your emotions.

Listening is vital to effective communication. It’s not just hearing the words, but understanding what the other person means and how he or she feels.

Stress in small doses may help you under pressure. But too much can cloud your ability to speak clearly, listen effectively, or read non-verbal skills properly. Reacting can cause you to say or do things you’ll regret.

The next time you are in a stressful situation, take control. Think before you speak. Take a few deep breaths. Look for humor to break up the tension. Be willing to compromise or at least agree to disagree.