By: Bronwyn Ison
Everyday we are communicating with one another. Most of us do not contemplate the exchange of words we have with each other. As simple as communication between two people may seem, we are often misunderstood. Add email and text messaging as a conduit and the dialogue can be misconstrued. Communication is a two way process. How we send our message and how we receive the message can be managed for greater and more effective communication.
Communication is considered a skill. Truly there is an art associated in how effectively we communicate. Several variables are included as to whether you are a good or poor communicator. Speaking clearly, tone of voice, our gestures, posture, body language, facial expressions, and eye contact are a few to add to the list. One great fear most people have is public speaking. Speaking in front of a crowd of people may not coincide with your lifestyle but each day we are on stage. Communicating one-on-one can be equally as powerful as standing in front of a crowd of one hundred people.
Generally we are not cognizant about how we communicate because most of us are constantly talking. While we may be listening to what the other person is saying, are we really receptive? Stop, listen, and absorb. There are several ways you can become a better communicator if you choose to improve your interpersonal relationships.
Often times in a heated discussion we embellish and deviate from the initial topic because we are overzealous to make a point. Or, we are excited about sharing great news with another and become lost in the moment. Consider remaining calm, breath, and do your best to focus. Stop, listen, and hear what you are saying as well as what your partner is expressing. You may be “listening” but “absorbing” what is being said is entirely different. Force yourself to hear what is being said. Ask your partner, spouse, business colleague to repeat themselves if you did not hear what they were saying or asking. It is important to be concise and laconic in one’s verbiage and avoid mistakes. Nonverbal cues are important. When one folds their arms this is an indication to the other person they are feeling defensive. Lack of eye contact generally means lack of interest, one is ashamed of something or, one finds the topic at hand difficult to digest. Infuse humor and be playful in conversation. Although you may be engaged in an intense conversation, adding your sense of humor can help lighten the mood. While you convey you are serious about your message a little playfulness in the conversation enables your listener to understand that you like to have fun. Lastly, do more than talk. Communicate with your actions. Offering to do something nice for a friend or your partner will take you far and exceed your expectations.
Communication is essential and we exercise this art incessantly. Say what you mean and mean what you say. The truth sets us free.
Bronwyn Ison is the Owner of Evolve Yoga in La Quinta. Please visit,
www.e-volveyoga.com for more information about classes and workshops.
