Communication

In class a few weeks back we discussed the importance of good communication. There are three different types of communication that we need to be aware of if we hope to not only express ourselves effectively to others, but also to understand them. Two of these three fall under the category of verbal communication, they are first, the actual words we use, and second,  the tone we use when we say them. It is important to remember that the combination of word and tone can change completely the message that others receive in conversation.The third form falls under the non-verbal category, it is body language. Non-verbal communication can be tricky and easily misinterpreted. That is why we need to be very careful with the way we conduct ourselves.

During our discussion in class we talked about some things that will aid us in achieving good communication.  For example be clear and concise, be an active listener, validate the other's feelings, use I feel statements, use soft start-ups, and last focus on the topic at hand. It was interesting to me in learning this that most of the tips for good communication actually have to do with focusing on understanding others. This reminded me of a quote I have always loved, " seek first to understand, and then to be understood."

Communication is powerful, and has the potential to lift and build or really hurt people. even simple miscommunications can have a very negative effect. This is why it is so vital that we develop good communication skills by practicing these good habits. If we make an effort we will someday be able to "communicate so clearly that you can not only be understood, but so that you cannot be misunderstood."