We all know that communication is key to maintaining a good, healthy relationship. What we don't always understand is how to deal with challenges that arise in communication. One of the most important things necessary to developing or maintaining healthy communication is to understand what it is made of.
- 14% words, or verbal communication
- 35% tone used when verbally communicating
- 51% nonverbal communication (ie. body language)
That seem a bit of a surprise, but what are we really interpreting when we listen to someone? Oftentimes, we rely most on their body language and other cues to understand the meaning behind the words they are saying. Then there is the process of exchanging words to express a thought or feeling.
You can never not communicate. There will always be some form of communication occurring.
It is important to create a good, healthy family culture with clear, healthy boundaries and clear feedback loops. The above illustration shows what happens in communication and may be able to help diagnose where a communication problem is occurring. If you decode something as a negative, then check for understanding. Clarify what was shared. Frequent clarification is crucial to maintaining good communication.
In all things, act in love. Strive to be selfless and not selfish. When selfishness and greed enter the picture, there is little to no room for understanding or effective communication.
There are many ways to communicate. For your sake and for the sake of your family, friends and loved ones, learn how to say what you really mean and communicate how you really feel.
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