<human>:  I'm having a hard time communicating with my spouse, what tips can you give me?
<bot>: 
1. Start by listening more than you talk.
2. Speak in a calm, non-confrontational manner, and don't make assumptions about what the other person may be thinking or feeling.
3. Ask open-ended questions to stimulate discussion.
4. Be willing to accept that you may not always agree on certain things, but still strive for understanding and compromise.
5. Take some time to evaluate the source of your communication problems, and work together to find solutions.