Communication Is Key
BY BART SMITH, AUTHOR OF B.S. THE BOOK Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
When it comes to building and growing prosperous relationships, one element is vital: communication. To the degree you can communicate your thoughts, words and feelings, you will succeed in your relationships. Frequency of positive communication is also important. Start with honesty, tact, patience, listening more and talking less. Seek to understand, not so much to be understood. Never raise your voice or your hand.
And, arguing is a complete waste of time. Never use fear or abandonment tactics to communicate your thoughts and feelings. Just open your mouth and say, "Ummm, can I talk to you?" See how easy that was? Communication is not screaming, yelling, clawing, kicking, crying. Nope. In the end, after you've both calmed down, you'll have to talk things out any way.
Better to discuss all things in the open, before the trouble really starts, then move on with confidence and respect.
Communicate With Others Openly & Honestly From The Start
I'd rather risk everything up front and be completely honest about my feelings, thoughts and words because …
(1) In the short-run (minor loss) = is momentary embarrassment, loss, discomfort and hurt feelings. If I'm not effective in my communication and I prolong (the agony) here's what might happen …
(2) In the long-run (major loss) = regret, remorse, stress, lies, anxiety, guilt … Get the picture? I thought so.
