I think that quote sums up the topics of discussion for this past week in Family Relations.
Communication is one of the aspects of any relationship that is almost never done right, but is so crucial to the success of any relationship.
So why is it so hard to master? Pride.
When we communicate, our goal is to be heard and to invoke a connection between the person with whom you are communicating with. However I think that most people don't realize how communication really works.
I thought it was so interesting that well over half of communication occurs through nonverbal cues. These include body language, eye language, muscle contractions, appearance and grooming, etc. Very little emphasis is placed on the exact words that are being said.
When we talk with someone and they say something in response, we are always interpreting what they say by what they look like.
You know what they say when you assume??
This is why clarifying, repeating meanings back to a person and taking the time to confirm what they are saying to avoid confusion and miscommunication which can cause worse problems.
I am a firm believer that technology has deteriorated the art of communication. Texting, emailing, instant messaging, and most importantly Facebook has caused the upcoming generations to miss opportunities to learn how to effectively communicate. More human interaction would benefit relationships all over and improve the quality of life of those relationships.
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