Let it Flow

I recently posted about the importance of effective communication for healthy living and mentioned three levels or categories that I believe people fall into:

1. Communication Hibernation - Denying the need for communication and “keep quiet”
2. Communication Frustration - You think you’re point is clear but you’re not being understood.
3. Communication Appreciation – When you speak clearly and you’re understood you are able to achieve the desired result.

If you often find yourself in Communication Hibernation or Frustration, then it’s time to wake up! Below are a few tips to help you begin to appreciate the benefits of effective communication.

Speak with confidence and conviction – Don’t be afraid to have a point of view. When you believe what you say, others will believe it, too.

Choose your words carefully – Words such as “help”, “consider”, “please” and “thank you” are some of the most powerful and influential words in the English language. .

Be honest – Speaking truthfully will increase your confidence. If you are not speaking from your heart, that will show in your body language. Remember body language is 90% of communication! Practice truthful speaking with yourself, first. Instead of waking up and saying “Ugh, what a dreadful day”, say “Another new day that I have yet to experience”. Be open.

Making a request – Knowing how to successfully ask for something (support from family, a raise, help with the laundry) and knowing when to gracefully decline with “no, for now” are two very powerful communication tools. In a world where we are craving more time, asking for help and saying, “no” will help free you’re time so you can engage in more activities you enjoy.

Seek help – Not sure how to start on your own? Seek out a class or organization dedicated to communicating effectively. There is no shortage of coaches focusing on helping people speak effectively, personally and professionally.

Learning to effectively communicate is a process. Have patience, practice and commit to staying out of Communication Hibernation.

Tags: Communication, Let it Flow Events, Stress //