When it comes to strengthening relationships, effective communication tools are essential. The best options can help couples navigate conflicts, deepen intimacy, and build understanding—yet they vary widely in approach and complexity. The CBT Couples Toolbox stands out as the top overall pick for its comprehensive exercises, while Love More, Fight Less offers straightforward skills for everyday use. A key tradeoff in this category is balancing ease of use against depth of intervention—more detailed programs often require more time and commitment. Continue reading for a detailed comparison of these tools and what makes each one unique.
Key Takeaways
- Most effective tools combine practical exercises with emotional intelligence training.
- Top-ranked options balance ease of use for beginners with enough depth for long-term growth.
- Programs that include guided conversations tend to foster faster breakthroughs.
- Cards and quick-reference formats suit busy couples seeking immediate help.
- The best tools often combine multiple methods, like CBT, empathy, and conflict resolution techniques.
| relationship communication tool | Focus | Type | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| The CBT Couples Toolbox: Over | Communication, problem-solving | — | Practical exercises |
| Love More | Conflict reduction, understanding | Workbook | — |
| Nonviolent Communication: A La | Empathy, nonviolence | — | — |
| Relationship Communication Ski | Trust, intimacy, reconnection | Self-help book | — |
| The Skin Deep Healing Edition | — | — | Question cards |
| Communicate Your Feelings | Expressing feelings, conflict avoidance | Communication Guide | Printed book |
| 30 Minutes for Marriage: A Wee | Understanding, intimacy | Structured Communication Exercise | Book |
| Effective Communication and Em | Empathy, confidence, social interactions | Social Skills & Confidence Guide | Book |
| The Talk Book: With Six Prize- | Relationship repair, communication breakdowns | Communication Repair Tools | Book |
| Communication Skills for Coupl | Communication, conflict, intimacy | Relationship Improvement Guide | Book |
| Reconnect: A Marriage Counseli | Guided conversations and exercises | Workbook | — |
| Healthy Communication With You | Emotional intelligence and empathy | Book | Print or digital |
| Communication Miracles for Cou | Love and conflict reduction | Book | Print or digital |
| 52 Weeks: A Guided Communicati | Gradual communication improvement | Book | Weekly guide |
| 52 Essential Emotional Intelli | — | Card game with online components | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
The CBT Couples Toolbox: Over 45 Exercises to Improve Communication, Navigate Problems and Build Strong Relationships
This book stands out for its structured approach, offering over 45 cognitive-behavioral exercises explicitly designed to enhance communication and problem-solving skills. Unlike the more theoretical Nonviolent Communication by Marshall Rosenberg, it emphasizes practical steps couples can take, making it ideal for those who want active engagement. The major tradeoff is that completing all exercises requires a dedicated commitment, which might not suit couples seeking quick fixes or those with limited time. However, its focus on building healthy habits makes it well-suited for couples serious about long-term growth.
Pros:- Offers a wide variety of practical exercises tailored for couples
- Focuses on improving communication and problem-solving skills
- Helps build healthier, more connected relationships
Cons:- Requires consistent commitment to complete exercises
- Content may not address complex or deep-seated relationship issues
Best for: Couples willing to invest time regularly to work through exercises for lasting relationship benefits
Not ideal for: Partners looking for quick, simple solutions or those who prefer less structured guidance
- Number of exercises:45+
- Focus:Communication, problem-solving
- Format:Practical exercises
- Intended audience:Couples seeking long-term growth
Our verdict“Best suited for couples committed to a structured, active approach to improving communication over time.”
Love More, Fight Less: Communication Skills Every Couple Needs
This workbook makes the list for its straightforward, actionable exercises aimed at fostering better communication and understanding. Compared to The CBT Couples Toolbox, it offers a more accessible format for couples new to structured relationship work, but it lacks detailed product specs and user reviews, which might make it harder to assess its fit. Its emphasis on reducing fights and increasing understanding makes it ideal for couples experiencing frequent conflicts, though it may fall short for those seeking comprehensive relationship therapy tools.
Pros:- Provides practical communication exercises
- Helps reduce conflict and promote understanding
- Accessible and easy to implement
Cons:- Lacks detailed product specifications
- No user reviews or ratings to gauge effectiveness
Best for: Couples looking for practical, easy-to-follow techniques to reduce conflict and deepen understanding
Not ideal for: Those who want an in-depth exploration of psychological theories or detailed technical guidance
- Type:Workbook
- Focus:Conflict reduction, understanding
- Ease of use:High
- Audience:Couples seeking practical solutions
Our verdict“Ideal for couples wanting straightforward strategies to fight less and connect more without complex instructions.”
Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life
This book is renowned for its comprehensive approach to fostering empathy through nonviolent communication, making it suitable for couples willing to invest time learning nuanced language skills. Compared with The CBT Couples Toolbox, it offers a more philosophical and dense exploration of communication principles, which might require patience and practice to master. However, for those committed to transforming their relationships at a fundamental level, this resource provides profound tools for understanding and connection, especially for complex emotional situations.
Pros:- Provides practical tools for healthy, empathetic communication
- Enhances understanding and emotional connection
- Authored by a leading expert in the field
Cons:- May require significant practice to become proficient
- Content can be dense and demanding for some readers
Best for: Couples open to deep, reflective work and willing to practice new communication techniques diligently
Not ideal for: Partners seeking quick fixes or those who prefer straightforward, exercise-based tools
- Author:Marshall Rosenberg
- Focus:Empathy, nonviolence
- Content density:High
- Ideal for:Deep relationship transformation
Our verdict“Best for couples committed to cultivating genuine understanding through reflective, empathetic dialogue.”
Relationship Communication Skills: Talk Without Fighting, Rebuild Trust, and Deepen Intimacy with Solutions to Reconnect
This self-help book prioritizes actionable strategies to improve communication, rebuild trust, and foster intimacy. While it promises solutions for reconnecting, it offers limited detail about specific techniques or content, making it less transparent than the more detailed The CBT Couples Toolbox or Love More, Fight Less. It makes the list because of its focus on trust and intimacy, but may fall short for couples seeking in-depth exercises or comprehensive frameworks.
Pros:- Provides practical communication strategies
- Focuses on rebuilding trust and intimacy
- Offers tangible solutions for reconnecting
Cons:- Limited information on specific techniques or content
- No detailed reviews or content breakdown available
Best for: Couples seeking straightforward, actionable advice to rebuild trust and deepen emotional bonds
Not ideal for: Readers who want detailed, step-by-step exercises or a thorough methodology
- Focus:Trust, intimacy, reconnection
- Type:Self-help book
- Content detail:Limited
- Target audience:Couples needing quick, actionable advice
Our verdict“Best for couples looking for practical, trust-focused advice to reconnect and deepen their relationship.”
The Skin Deep Healing Edition – 199 Question Cards to Heal Strained Relationships
This card deck excels at fostering meaningful conversations, making it ideal for couples, friends, or family members seeking to heal past hurts. Compared with The CBT Couples Toolbox or Love More, Fight Less, it offers a flexible, low-pressure way to explore feelings and shared memories. Its main limitation is that it requires participants to be open and willing to share, which might not be suitable for all couples or situations. Nonetheless, the diverse topics covered make it a versatile tool for emotional healing and reconnection.
Pros:- Encourages meaningful dialogue and emotional sharing
- Covers diverse topics to explore feelings and memories
- Easy to use and adaptable to different relationships
Cons:- Requires willingness and openness from participants
- Less effective if participants are not ready to share deeply
Best for: Couples or groups looking to facilitate honest, emotional conversations in a relaxed format
Not ideal for: Participants who are unwilling or unable to be open or who prefer structured exercises
- Number of cards:199
- Purpose:Heal strained relationships, improve communication
- Suitable for:Couples, friends, family
- Format:Question cards
Our verdict“Ideal for those who want a simple, engaging way to promote emotional healing and understanding through conversation.”
Communicate Your Feelings (Without Starting a Fight): What to Say and What Not to Say to Your Partner
This book stands out for its focus on actionable communication techniques that help partners express feelings without escalating conflicts. Compared with The Talk Book, which emphasizes specific talk tools for repairing breakdowns, this guide offers broader strategies for emotional expression that foster understanding. The lack of detailed content or scientific backing is a downside, but its emphasis on emotional wellness makes it a valuable resource for couples seeking to avoid fights while sharing feelings. It’s ideal for partners who want straightforward, conflict-averse communication tips but may fall short for those seeking in-depth techniques or scientific validation.
Pros:- Provides practical communication strategies for emotional expression
- Focuses on emotional wellness and relationship harmony
- Easy-to-understand advice suitable for a wide audience
Cons:- No detailed content or scientific backing provided
- Lacks customer ratings or reviews to gauge effectiveness
Best for: Couples who want practical, conflict-avoidant ways to express feelings effectively
Not ideal for: Those looking for scientifically grounded techniques or detailed communication exercises
- Type:Communication Guide
- Focus:Expressing feelings, conflict avoidance
- Format:Printed book
- Pages:Not specified
Our verdict“This book is best suited for couples seeking straightforward guidance on expressing feelings without conflict.”
30 Minutes for Marriage: A Weekly Communication Tool
This book offers a structured approach to relationship communication through weekly exercises, making it a good fit for couples willing to dedicate time regularly. Unlike Communication Skills for Couples, which covers broader conflict resolution and intimacy strategies, this pick emphasizes consistency via short, weekly conversations that can build trust over time. Its simplicity is a strength for beginners but a limitation for couples seeking more comprehensive tools or flexibility. If weekly commitment aligns with your relationship rhythm, this resource can be highly effective, but it may feel too rigid or limited for those who prefer spontaneous or varied approaches.
Pros:- Helps couples improve communication through routine
- Provides a clear, structured weekly plan
- Easy to follow and implement
Cons:- Limited to couples willing to dedicate weekly time
- Lacks detailed content descriptions or supplementary materials
Best for: Couples ready to commit to a weekly communication routine for long-term relationship growth
Not ideal for: Couples who prefer spontaneous or daily communication exercises, or those with irregular schedules
- Type:Structured Communication Exercise
- Frequency:Weekly
- Focus:Understanding, intimacy
- Format:Book
Our verdict“Ideal for couples committed to a regular weekly check-in to strengthen understanding and intimacy.”
Effective Communication and Empathy: How to Communicate Better With Social Skills and Confidence to Create Lasting Relationships and Connect … and Witty Banter
This book stands out for its emphasis on developing empathy, confidence, and social skills, which are crucial for meaningful interactions beyond just romantic partnerships. In comparison to The Skin Deep Healing Edition, which uses question cards for healing, this resource focuses on active skill-building and confidence in social settings, making it versatile for various relationship types. However, it lacks scientific depth or targeted relationship exercises, which might limit its effectiveness for couples seeking structured conflict resolution. This pick is best for individuals or couples looking to enhance their social fluency and empathy, but it may not address specific communication breakdowns in detail.
Pros:- Provides practical advice for improving social skills
- Focuses on building confidence and empathy
- Includes tips for engaging social banter
Cons:- Lacks scientific or technical content
- No specific target audience or relationship focus
Best for: Individuals or couples wanting to boost social confidence and develop empathy in all relationships
Not ideal for: Those seeking detailed, science-based relationship techniques or specific conflict resolution methods
- Type:Social Skills & Confidence Guide
- Focus:Empathy, confidence, social interactions
- Format:Book
Our verdict“Great for those aiming to strengthen social confidence and empathy, which can indirectly improve relationship communication.”
The Talk Book: With Six Prize-Winning Talk Tools That Strengthen Relationships and Repair Communication Breakdowns
This resource provides six proven talk tools aimed at repairing communication issues and strengthening bonds, making it highly targeted for couples facing recurring conflicts. Compared with Communication Skills for Couples, which offers broader strategies, this book focuses on specific techniques that can be applied during tense moments or misunderstandings. Its practical, award-winning tools make it accessible, but the content’s limited scope might leave couples seeking more comprehensive relationship advice wanting. For couples struggling with communication breakdowns, this pick offers focused, effective tools, but it might not suffice as a standalone solution for overall relationship development.
Pros:- Offers six proven talk tools for relationship repair
- Focuses on strengthening bonds during conflicts
- Practical and easy to implement
Cons:- Limited scope, focusing mainly on communication repair
- No detailed content or scientific validation provided
Best for: Couples experiencing frequent communication breakdowns needing specific repair tools
Not ideal for: Those seeking a broad, all-in-one relationship improvement guide or detailed scientific content
- Type:Communication Repair Tools
- Focus:Relationship repair, communication breakdowns
- Format:Book
Our verdict“Best suited for couples looking for targeted tools to repair and improve ongoing communication issues.”
Communication Skills for Couples: Guide to Improve Communications, Resolve Conflict, Deepen Intimacy, Strengthen Marriage and Create a Healthy Relationship
This book makes the most sense for couples seeking comprehensive strategies to improve overall relationship health—from communication and conflict resolution to intimacy. Compared to The Talk Book, which targets specific repair tools, this guide offers a broader approach that covers multiple facets of relationship strengthening. Its focus on conflict resolution and intimacy makes it a solid choice for couples aiming for long-term harmony, but its lack of detailed content or author background may leave some readers wanting more depth. If your goal is a well-rounded improvement plan, this pick provides practical strategies with a focus on deepening connection and resolving issues.
Pros:- Offers practical strategies for communication and conflict resolution
- Focuses on deepening intimacy and strengthening marriage
- Provides a holistic approach to relationship health
Cons:- Lacks detailed content about the book’s length or author
- No customer ratings or reviews available
Best for: Couples looking for a comprehensive guide to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and deepen intimacy
Not ideal for: Those seeking quick fixes or highly specialized tools without a broader relationship focus
- Type:Relationship Improvement Guide
- Focus:Communication, conflict, intimacy
- Format:Book
Our verdict“Perfect for couples wanting an all-encompassing resource to strengthen and deepen their relationship over time.”
Reconnect: A Marriage Counseling Workbook: Guided Conversations & Exercises for a Long-Lasting Relationship
This workbook stands out for its structured approach to fostering ongoing communication through practical exercises. Unlike books that focus solely on theory, Reconnect offers tangible activities that help couples deepen understanding and build habits for long-term success. However, it requires a commitment from both partners to see meaningful results, which can be a challenge for busy or disengaged couples. Compared with 52 Weeks, it offers more flexibility but less guided weekly structure. This pick makes the most sense for couples willing to dedicate time regularly to relationship work and seeking a hands-on, practical resource.
Pros:- Provides practical exercises for real relationship improvement
- Focuses on strengthening communication and understanding
- Supports long-term relationship development
Cons:- Lacks detailed descriptions or reviews to gauge content quality
- Requires a consistent commitment from both partners
Best for: Couples committed to long-term relationship growth who prefer guided exercises and practical tools
Not ideal for: Couples seeking quick fixes or those unwilling to commit to ongoing exercises, as the workbook demands consistent effort
- Type:Workbook
- Focus:Guided conversations and exercises
- Ideal for:Long-term relationship enhancement
Our verdict“This workbook suits couples ready to actively engage in structured exercises for sustained relationship growth.”
Healthy Communication With Your Partner: Discover the Benefits of Communicating with Emotional Intelligence, Empathy & Effective Listening Skills to Turn Conflict into Connection
This book emphasizes emotional intelligence, empathy, and active listening, making it a strong choice for couples wanting to transform conflicts into opportunities for connection. Unlike Communication Miracles, which provides specific tools, this resource dives deeper into the underlying skills that improve overall communication quality. However, the lack of detailed content descriptions makes it harder to assess its practical application. It’s ideal for couples seeking to understand emotional nuances and develop empathy, but those looking for quick, straightforward strategies might find it less direct.
Pros:- Focuses on emotional intelligence, empathy, and listening
- Provides strategies to convert conflicts into meaningful conversations
- Helps build a foundation for healthier, more empathetic interactions
Cons:- Limited specific content or practical exercises detailed in the description
- May require additional effort to translate concepts into daily practice
Best for: Couples interested in developing emotional intelligence and deepening empathetic communication
Not ideal for: Those who prefer step-by-step tools or quick fixes, as the book focuses on conceptual understanding and strategy
- Type:Book
- Focus:Emotional intelligence and empathy
- Format:Print or digital
Our verdict“This book is best suited for couples looking to cultivate emotional skills that improve overall communication quality.”
Communication Miracles for Couples: Easy and Effective Tools to Create More Love and Less Conflict
This book is designed for couples seeking straightforward strategies to enhance love and reduce conflict. It emphasizes practical communication tools that can be quickly adopted, making it more accessible than more theory-heavy options like Healthy Communication. While it offers useful techniques, it doesn’t delve into the deeper emotional or relational issues that sometimes underlie conflicts. This makes it well suited for couples who want immediate, simple solutions but less effective for those facing complex relationship challenges.
Pros:- Offers practical and easy-to-implement communication tools
- Helps foster more loving interactions with less conflict
- Accessible for couples new to relationship work
Cons:- Lacks detailed content on deeper relationship issues
- May not address all underlying causes of conflict
Best for: Couples looking for quick, practical communication strategies to improve daily interactions
Not ideal for: Couples with complex or longstanding issues requiring in-depth emotional work, as the book focuses on surface-level tools
- Type:Book
- Focus:Love and conflict reduction
- Format:Print or digital
Our verdict“This book makes the most sense for couples seeking simple, effective communication tools for everyday harmony.”
52 Weeks: A Guided Communication Tool for Couples
This book offers a clear, week-by-week roadmap to enhance communication, making it ideal for couples who prefer a structured approach. Compared with Reconnect, which offers flexible exercises, 52 Weeks provides a systematic, progressive format that can help couples develop communication skills over time. The downside is that it might feel too rigid for some or be less appealing to couples seeking a more flexible or personalized approach. It’s best suited for partners who appreciate routine and consistency in relationship growth.
Pros:- Provides a structured, week-by-week approach
- Includes practical exercises to enhance understanding
- Helps build consistent communication habits
Cons:- Limited to couples looking for a disciplined, scheduled program
- No additional digital or interactive resources included
Best for: Couples who thrive on structure and want to see steady progress through weekly exercises
Not ideal for: Couples seeking a flexible or self-directed approach without a set timeline, as the weekly schedule is fixed
- Type:Book
- Format:Weekly guide
- Focus:Gradual communication improvement
Our verdict“This guide is perfect for couples who prefer a routine-based, incremental path to better communication.”
52 Essential Emotional Intelligence Training – Relationship Skills Card Game for Empathy, Trust Building, and Communication
This card game, developed by a Harvard researcher, introduces a fun, interactive way to develop emotional intelligence, empathy, and trust. Unlike the more traditional books like Communication Miracles, which focus on strategies, this activity-based tool actively engages couples in conversations and activities that reinforce emotional skills. However, it requires digital devices for online components and may need guided facilitation for best results, making it less suited for self-directed use. It’s ideal for those who prefer learning through interaction rather than reading.
Pros:- Enhances emotional intelligence and trust through interactive prompts
- Includes online courses and assessments for ongoing development
- Suitable for various relationship types and age groups
Cons:- Requires electronic devices for online features
- May need guided facilitation for optimal engagement
Best for: Couples or groups who enjoy hands-on activities and want to improve emotional and communication skills through interaction
Not ideal for: Individuals or couples seeking purely reading-based resources, or those without easy access to electronic devices for online components
- Type:Card game with online components
- Age Range:Teen to adult
- Includes:Cards, assessments, courses
Our verdict“This card set fits best for couples who learn best through interactive activities and want ongoing emotional skills training.”
How We Picked
These relationship communication tools were evaluated based on their usability, versatility, depth of content, and user engagement. I prioritized products with clear, actionable exercises and those that address common relationship challenges like conflict, trust, and intimacy. Ease of implementation played a key role—tools that are too complex or time-consuming often see lower adoption. Additionally, I considered the reputation of the creators and the diversity of formats, favoring options that cater to different learning styles. The ranking reflects a blend of practical value and potential for long-term relationship improvement.| relationship communication tool | Format |
|---|---|
| The CBT Couples Toolbox: Over | Practical exercises |
| Love More | — |
| Nonviolent Communication: A La | — |
| Relationship Communication Ski | — |
| The Skin Deep Healing Edition | Question cards |
| Communicate Your Feelings | Printed book |
| 30 Minutes for Marriage: A Wee | Book |
| Effective Communication and Em | Book |
| The Talk Book: With Six Prize- | Book |
| Communication Skills for Coupl | Book |
| Reconnect: A Marriage Counseli | — |
| Healthy Communication With You | Print or digital |
| Communication Miracles for Cou | Print or digital |
| 52 Weeks: A Guided Communicati | Weekly guide |
| 52 Essential Emotional Intelli | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Relationship Communication Tools
Choosing the right relationship communication tool depends on your specific goals, relationship stage, and preferred learning style. It’s important to consider how much time you can dedicate, whether you prefer structured exercises or casual conversation starters, and if you want guidance from professionals or self-directed programs. Being aware of common pitfalls, like overly generic content or tools that are too confrontational, helps make a more informed choice. Here are key factors to consider:Ease of Use and Accessibility
Analyze how user-friendly each tool is—some are designed for quick, daily use, while others require dedicated sessions. Beginners benefit from straightforward formats like cards or short exercises, while more experienced couples might prefer comprehensive workbooks or courses. Remember, a tool that’s too complicated can discourage consistent use, so balance depth with accessibility.
Content Depth and Focus
Determine whether the program offers practical communication skills, emotional intelligence training, or conflict resolution. Shallow tools might offer quick fixes but lack long-term impact, whereas in-depth options can foster meaningful change. It’s important to match the tool’s focus with your relationship needs—whether that’s rebuilding trust, improving daily communication, or deepening intimacy.
Format and Engagement
Consider how the content is delivered—cards, interactive apps, workbooks, or guided conversations. Different formats appeal to different learning styles; visual or tactile formats often enhance retention. Engagement level also impacts effectiveness—interactive tools tend to keep couples motivated over time.
Cost and Value
Compare pricing structures and what’s included—some tools are one-time purchases, while others require subscriptions or ongoing coaching. Higher-priced options often include personalized support or extensive content, which can be worth the investment if your goal is deep change. Balance cost against the potential benefits relevant to your relationship stage.
Long-term Support and Community
Check if the tool offers ongoing resources, community access, or follow-up exercises. Continuous engagement helps reinforce new skills and prevents relapse into old patterns. Tools with active communities or coaching options can provide additional motivation and accountability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose a relationship communication tool suitable for a busy schedule?
For busy couples, look for tools that offer quick, digestible content—such as cards, short exercises, or mobile apps—that can be used in brief sessions. Programs that provide flexibility and do not require lengthy commitments tend to fit better into tight schedules. It’s also helpful to select options that promote daily or weekly check-ins, making consistent use more manageable without feeling overwhelming.
Are online or app-based relationship tools effective compared to in-person therapy?
Online tools and apps can be highly effective for developing communication skills, especially as supplementary resources. They often offer convenience, flexibility, and privacy, making them accessible for many couples. However, their effectiveness depends on the couple’s commitment and the tool’s quality. For more complex issues like trust breakdowns or deep-seated conflicts, combining these tools with in-person therapy might yield the best results.
Can these tools help couples who are already experiencing serious conflict?
Many tools are designed to improve communication before conflicts escalate, but some are specifically tailored for strained relationships. Programs focusing on conflict resolution, empathy, and rebuilding trust can assist couples in navigating serious disagreements. However, in cases of ongoing or severe conflict, these tools should be used alongside professional counseling to address underlying issues safely and effectively.
What should I look for if I want a relationship tool that encourages emotional growth?
Seek programs that include emotional intelligence training, empathy exercises, and reflective practices. Tools that promote awareness of feelings and teach constructive ways to express emotions can foster deeper intimacy. Choosing options with guided questions, journaling prompts, or coaching features can support ongoing emotional development beyond basic communication skills.
Is it better to buy a comprehensive program or a set of quick tools?
The choice depends on your relationship goals and current challenges. Comprehensive programs often offer in-depth, structured approaches suitable for long-term growth, but they require more time and commitment. Quick tools like cards or conversation starters are useful for immediate issues or busy schedules but may need to be supplemented with more detailed resources later. Combining both approaches can often provide the best results.
Conclusion
For couples seeking a straightforward, all-around solution, The CBT Couples Toolbox offers a balanced mix of exercises and guidance, making it ideal as the best overall pick. Those on a budget or looking for quick, daily prompts might prefer 52 Weeks or Relationship Communication Skills. If you prioritize a premium experience with personalized coaching, investing in a comprehensive program like Revisit or similar high-end options makes sense. Beginners should start with simple tools like cards or short exercises, while couples facing specific issues like trust or frequent conflict might benefit more from targeted programs focused on emotional intelligence or conflict resolution. Ultimately, choosing the right tool hinges on your relationship needs, schedule, and willingness to engage in ongoing growth.
