Communicating

I’ve chosen communication as the theme for my October blogs.

Communicating is key. If the information we’re trying to pass on isn’t understood, there is a communication gap. I’ve found that there are many ways to communicate, and the method we choose depends on what we want to say, and to whom we want to say it.

November is just around the corner, and politicians are relying on mass communication to get their messages out to voters. Yards are cluttered with political signs, newspapers are running ads, and inboxes are filled with mass emails telling us how and for whom to vote.

I do not recommend relying on mass communication with close friends, family members, or your spouse. When you want to build strong relationships, improve understanding, or resolve a misunderstanding, interpersonal communication is the better choice. 

When we reflect on our own thoughts, we use intrapersonal communication. Assessing our thoughts, motives, and actions is a healthy practice. Taking time to reflect on our priorities, goals, and values helps us stay aligned with who we are. 

The three types of communication I’ve covered so far are just the tip of the iceberg. Others include verbal, nonverbal, visual, real-time, formal, and informal.

Beyond types are styles of communication. The most common are assertive, passive, aggressive, and passive-aggressive. 

Writing about communication will not only inform us about the types and styles, but also educate us on how these types and styles make us better communicators. 

Why Bother?

Why bother communicating? We pass on information, build relationships, and resolve conflicts most effectively when we choose the right way to communicate.