“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.”
-George Bernard Shaw
How do the words above resonate with you?
Pause here for a moment and free yourself from distractions:
Take a deep breath in... exhale slowly... deep breath in... exhale slowly... deep breath in... exhale slowly... calm your mind and be present...
How would you rate your ability to communicate? On a scale of 1-10...
How do you know your message was received the way you intended? Think about that seriously for a moment...
Most would agree, relationships whether romantic, personal, or professional, depend greatly on communication. It is interesting how many of us have not taken the time to analyze how effective our communication skill actually is.
communication: /noun/
the act or process of using words, sounds, signs, or behaviors to express or exchange information or to express your ideas, thoughts, feelings, etc., to someone else.
Communication is the act of giving, receiving, and sharing information -- in other words, talking or writing, and listening or reading. Good communicators listen carefully, speak or write clearly, and respect different opinions (commonsensemedia.org)
In The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader, Maxwell explains that you can be a more effective communicator if you follow these truths:
1. Simplify your message: Forget about impressing people with big words or complex sentences. If you want to connect with people, keep it simple.
*Simplicity is the key.
2. See the person: As you communicate with others, ask yourself:
Who is my audience?
What are their questions?
What needs to be accomplished?
*Know your audience.
3. Show the truth: Believe what you say and live what you say. There is no greater credibility than conviction in action.
*Credibility precedes great communication.
4. Seek a response: Every time you speak to people, give them something to feel, something to remember, and something to do.
*The goal of all communication is action.
Today’s Challenge: Intentionally seek ways and opportunities to improve your communication skill.
Review and analyze for yourself the 4 key areas above.
Get feedback from a trusted colleague, mentor, teammate, or friend. Does their feedback match your analysis?
Develop a plan to work on your weak areas.
Leaders: Share this information in your professional circles. Hold each other accountable. Learn and grow together.
How will you improve the way you communicate? …What are you willing to do?
Don’t miss your opportunity! Be intentional... Encourage others to do the same and watch what happens.
You got this!
Coach Tavia
#communicationiskey, #beabetteryou, #learnandgrow, #yourchoice, #yourjourney, #ittakescourage, #confidence, #justdoit, #responsibility, #accountability, #selfawareness, #faceyourfears, #honoryourself, #commitment, #intention, #standup, #speakup, #youhavearighttoyouruniqueness, #shareyourgifts, #learnthelesson, #powerforward, #bepresent, #leadbyexample, #leadershipdevelopment, #leadershipcoach, #lifecoach, #letsgo,
Reference:
Maxwell, John C. The 21 Indispensable Qualities in a Leader, Thomas Nelson, Nashville, TN 1999.
Comments