2026 Year of the horse: Proactive things people can do improve communication in their relationship this year
Announcement posted by Invigorate PR 14 Jan 2026
As Australians reset after the Christmas period and look ahead to a new year, best-selling author and emotional wellbeing thought leader Elizabeth Jane is encouraging couples to shift their focus from ambitious resolutions to something far more powerful: how they communicate with each other every day.
According to Jane, many relationship challenges don't stem from a lack of love, but from distraction, emotional fatigue and people slowly losing touch with their authentic selves.
"Most relationships don't fall apart because people don't care," Jane said.
"They struggle because people stop feeling heard, prioritised and emotionally safe."
Authenticity is the foundation of healthy communication
Jane said one of the most common mistakes people make in relationships is editing themselves to avoid conflict.
"So many people suppress their needs, soften the truth or pretend they're fine to keep the peace," she said.
"Unfortunately, when you're not being yourself, real connection can't exist. Authenticity builds trust however performance erodes it."
She explained that good communication doesn't require perfect wording, but honesty delivered with respect.
"You don't need to be perfect to communicate well. You just need to be real," Jane said.
Communication starts internally
Jane emphasised that effective communication begins with emotional self-awareness.
"If you don't understand what you're feeling, you can't express it clearly," she said.
"When people speak from stress, resentment or exhaustion, conversations quickly become reactive."
She recommended pausing before important conversations and asking: What am I actually feeling, and what do I need right now?
Being aware of how we truly feel is critical, as we can unconsciously project our insecurities, resentment or anger onto our partner which can make for volatile conversations.
Practical ways to improve communication in 2026
Jane said small, intentional changes can dramatically improve connection.
Create phone-free time
"There are some simple things you can do to instantly improve communication with your partner and they involve being emotionally and mentally available. Put phones away and be fully present," Jane said.
"Even 20 minutes of undistracted conversation builds connection."
Schedule regular check-ins
Set aside time weekly to talk about how you're both feeling, not just logistics.
"We put meetings and other activities of importance in our diary, why not add time for our relationship as well," Jane said.
"Complacency and laziness can creep into any relationship at any time. It is important to ensure you are being vigilant and giving your relationship the focus, priority and energy it deserves."
Have non-TV nights
"Switching off screens creates space for real conversation," Jane said.
"It is often where deeper connection happens. While it is fun to stream shows or movies together, it is equally just as much fun to chat and explore important topics together. Put together a cheese board and some travel brochures and spend an afternoon together talking and planning.
"These types of activities will give you the space and the flexibility to topic wander which leads to vital conversations."
Change the environment
Simple activities like going for a walk, having a picnic or sitting outside together can make difficult conversations feel safer and easier.
"New settings take you away from the stress and humdrum of life and help to activate new conversations," Jane said.
Choose timing carefully
"Important conversations shouldn't happen when you're tired, rushed or stressed," she said.
"Timing changes outcomes."
Manage your conversations
"Take care when engaging in conversation and be aware of your language and tone. Even a brief pause can stop conversations from escalating emotionally," Jane said.
"Be aware of how you are feeling and choose to interact when you are feeling calm and grounded.
"Speak from experience, not blame. Using 'I feel' and 'I need' keeps communication open rather than defensive.
"Be specific and clear. Hinting creates confusion. Clear communication reduces resentment. Listen to understand, not to win and reflect back what your partner says before responding.
"Ensure you repair quickly after contact. Acknowledging hurt, apologising or reconnecting after an argument builds emotional safety."
Strong communication creates resilient relationships
Jane said couples who communicate well don't avoid conflict, they handle it differently.
"When communication improves, relationships feel safer and more grounded and the relationship is strengthened," she said.
"People stop walking on eggshells and start showing up honestly."
As we move into 2026, Jane encouraged couples to see communication as a daily practice rather than a one-time fix.
"Small, consistent changes in how you talk, listen and show up can completely change how a relationship feels," she said.
"It takes vulnerability and courage and perseverance to have those often uncomfortable, but real conversations but the benefits are worth it, trust deepens, intimacy grows and relationships thrive."
About Elizabeth Jane
Elizabeth Jane is a best-selling author, sought-after keynote speaker, artist and respected thought leader whose work has inspired thousands of people to live with greater clarity, confidence and emotional freedom. Her highly popular book, Free and First - Unlocking Your Ultimate Life has helped many people across the globe to navigate and move forward from divorce and other life challenges to find joy and happiness. Based in Sydney, she is a devoted mother to four adult children and a powerful advocate for wellbeing, resilience and authentic living.
A Commerce graduate who later completed a Diploma in Education, Elizabeth has built a multifaceted career as a mentor, spokeswoman and creative force. Her insights have shaped conversations across mental health, relationships and personal transformation, earning her a reputation as one of Australia's most compelling voices in the self-development space.
Beyond her writing and speaking engagements, Elizabeth is a passionate practitioner of yoga and meditation and an accomplished painter. Her artwork and storytelling share a unifying mission: to empower people with practical tools to cultivate purpose, emotional strength, vibrant health and enduring joy.
Whether through her books, commentary and insights, her art or her presence on stage, Elizabeth continues to encourage audiences to live deeply, love fully and embrace the most authentic version of themselves.