Communication is more than speaking your mind. Being a good communicator is not the same as being a good speaker. A good communicator knows how to listen as well as speak. In fact, listening is one of the most important tasks for effective communication.
It is not enough to just listen to what is being said. It is important to hear as well. Listening is being alert and attentive to the speaker, focusing on what is being said, not how you want to respond. You may not agree with the speaker, and that is OK. However, it is important to understand perspective. A good communicator is open-minded enough that they listen and hear what is being said and seek to understand where the other person is coming from. Our experiences shape our views and perspectives. You do not have to agree to communicate respectfully!
When responding, think first. Do not say the first thing that comes into your head, but instead, take a moment and pay close attention to what you say and how you say it. Be clear and direct, and get to the point. Being wordy is not beneficial. Try to be specific and deliberate in your response. Say what you mean, and do not make someone try to figure out what you really mean. Do not assume your meaning will be understood. If you are giving instructions, give all of the instructions. Explain the details. You cannot expect someone to achieve the details if you do not set clear expectations. Time frames are also helpful. Saying soon or within reason does not help. What is soon or reasonable to one person is not the same to another. When possible, give examples, but keep them relative to the topic. If there are boundaries, state them. If there are not, try to provide parameters or explain that creative license is acceptable. If expectations are articulated, even if broad, everyone stands a better chance of being happy with outcomes.
If you are on the receiving end of instructions, seek clarification. Reiterate for understanding and remember…listening is key to good communication. Really, good communication is based on respect.
Live life. Give joy. Be at peace.
