How To Communicate Better?

Becoming (more) aware of what hinders you in communicating effectively, is a great first step. There are 3 reasons why communication can be hard.

One major roadblock is our tendency to make assumptions. We tend to underestimate how much effort is actually needed to make ourselves understood. At the same time, we overestimate how well the other person has understood us.

Secondly, we don't embrace the art of teaching: trying to impart an important piece of information from one mind to another. We tend to feel we shouldn’t have to teach something to others, or that it’s impossible to do so. Moreover, we often pick the wrong moments to try and make an instructive point or help someone to see something in a different way.

The third roadblock is that we don't recognise that we are not always the best student either. We tend to shut down as soon as someone else is trying to teach us something, or to become defensive when faced with criticism.

In order to get better at communicating, you have to be aware of your assumptions and whether you’ve really been clear as well as more empathetic. Learn to spot good opportunities, and try to teach others in a kind and gentle way. And show calmness and try to detach your ego from conversations.

Why communication matters? Studies have found that highly effective communicators are 32% more likely to meet their goals. If you can’t communicate what you need or would like from others, relationships will always be difficult. No matter what career or life you have, you have to deal with others in order to get things done - whether it's a client, boss or a friend. This makes it crucial that you learn how to convey messages in good time, with clarity, respect and patience.

If you manage to deal with these roadblocks, you'll discover there's way more to learn about communication. You start understanding the importance of human connection. You start understanding that listening goes beyond your ears. Thinking beyond your thoughts. And you realise that words are powerful but at the same time the least accurate way of communicating. Are you ready to be a messenger of dialogue?

Leave me a message in the comment section below, I’d love to hear from you.

- W.