Episode Transcript
Are your communication skills leaving you excommunicated? Communication is a critical fruit of life, whether with ourselves or others.
Today, we will cover some crucial pieces of the puzzle of authentic communication so that we are on the same page. Let's define interpersonal communication.
In short, interpersonal communication must serve two purposes. The person communicating must know what they are communicating, while the other must receive and interpret the intended precise meaning.
While it may seem daunting, mastering interpersonal communication is a worthwhile journey.
Unfortunately, we often learn the importance of a meaningful dialogue with our loved ones when a serious problem exists.
So, how do we develop better communication skills? As with anything about ourselves, we start within ourselves.
Everyone's idea of communication may be different. But there are specific parameters that we can use to our advantage. For instance:
1. Transparency: Be honest and open in your communication, and do not hide any information or intentions. Apparent honesty includes transparency.
2. Active listening: Listening genuinely to what the other person is saying without interrupting or assuming.
3. Mutual respect: Treating the other person respectfully and valuing their perspective, even if you disagree.
4. Empathy: Understanding the other person's perspective and feelings and showing compassion towards them.
5. Being present: Engaging fully in the conversation and giving attention to the other person.
6. Non-verbal cues: Pay attention to body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions to understand the full meaning of the communication.
7. Authenticity: Being true to yourself and expressing your thoughts and feelings genuinely, without trying to impress or manipulate others.
8. Constructive feedback: Giving feedback respectfully and constructively, focusing on improving and growing rather than criticizing or blaming.
9. Consistency: Ensuring that your words and actions align and being reliable in following through on your commitments.
10. Flexibility: Being open to different perspectives and willing to adapt your communication style to meet the situation's needs.
Meaningful communication is like creating a beautiful flower garden. You must know what you want to plant and select suitable land. (This means knowing what you want from the relationship and choosing the best fit.)
I am amazed how many people who want relationships never ask themselves what would be ideal for them and why. Admittedly, I have done this myself. But, it always ended without substance and direction.
The lack of realization is perfectly okay because there are no mistakes if we learn from the experience.
One of the most essential virtues of authentic communication is being genuinely interested in the person you are communicating with. Remember, everyone has a story. Although the story may be dull and uneventful to us, it might be captivating to someone else.
When you see couples out together, you can usually tell the duration of the relationship and participation by their attention to each other.
Interest will be fleeting if something draws your attention with something different from your core values. Counterfeit interest is toxic, but more so for the person who stays interested while the other doesn't.
And eventually, if you specialize in being flip-floppy, the person you fall for will give you the same thing back.
Okay, so you have the person on your radar; now what? One of the first practices will be to observe and record who you want to deal with.
If you can find things that interest them, you are creating an opening. However, you may find that there is no compatibility.
Don't sell yourself short because of need. If you choose inappropriately, you will be back out there with the same needs.
Creating an opening can be as complex as researching and observing them for some time.
You can also recognize the type of purse, shoes, or hairstyle they have, compliment them, or show your knowledge and appreciation for their choice.
Read the room! Look out for their body language as they see you approach. Check their tonality and engagement. If you will see them again, let them know you appreciate their time and hope they found it as enjoyable as you have.
If not, and everything seems possible, attempt to find a way to contact them. If you get the "let me get your number," it may be a polite no thanks.
The wording and presentation must be appropriate to the age, culture, and environment. If a person approaches a classy, fifty-year-old lady and says, Wazzup? And what is your Zodiac sign, Baby? That will likely be the extent of that relationship.
Let's say everything went well, and you excitedly anticipate the possibilities. Don't plan the 2.5 children and the white picket fence yet.
It's only just begun!
Please join me for the next segment. So, my friends, until the next time we meet.
Always be the best version of yourself. Love Yourself. You are Not Alone. You are relevant and worthy.
How about that?
