Communication is key in any relationship. It’s not just what we say but how we say it that makes a difference.

Our communication has three parts to it. Our intent, our choice of words and the way it is received. 

Effective communication comes from honesty. When we clearly express our intent and explain our motive. We avoid the risk of misunderstanding when people understand our motive.

It comes from making our point with simplicity. Truth needs no flowery language to express itself. 

It comes from love. Harsh words and aggressive tones only display our anger, ego and insecurity. We can be firm without breaking a heart.

It comes from empathy and care. Being sensitive to the other and intelligent in knowing what will work and what will hurt. But saying – “that’s the way I am and speak” makes it about ourselves and not the other. But communication is all about conveying to the other.

And yet sometimes we find our words land wrongly and we’re misunderstood. It happens. People in different frames of mind receive our words differently. But if the relationship is important enough to us, our ego should not stand in the way of reaching out to sort things out. 

And sometimes we need to have difficult conversations. Avoiding them is not a solution. When we are honest enough to accept our mistakes and operate from care, these conversations can become building blocks for enduring relationships.

And not all communication needs words. Moments of silence or just a smile can convey a lot.

Listening is also communicating. To have the patience to hear someone out and allow them their time and space to express themselves. And while listening, to be aware that we’re not already thinking of a response, but are truly deeply listening. It’s never about picking on words and making it a debate to win. It’s trying to understand the feelings behind the words. 

To listen is to love. And when we listen in our Quiet Time, our inner voice Communicates.