Mawasiliano

Communication:

If you're misunderstood, it might be YOUR fault. We talked about listening and how that can help you. But, how well do you communicate your thoughts to others. Do you actually think before you speak? How honest is too honest? Are you really going to tell your mother that the dress she's wearing makes her look fat? The things you say have a lasting effect on people, as well as the things you do. As you communicate with others, you need to keep a few things in mind.

1. Be honest, but not too honest
   

   You always hear cliches like Honesty is the best policy, which is true, but sometimes you feel the need to lie. Don't fret. You don't have to, there are ways you can avoid lying but still answer a question. Let's say someone asks you if you like their outfit and YOU think it looks terrible. Pick something about it that you like and compliment it. Oh, I like the color. or Hey, that necklace looks really cool, where did you get it? Asking a follow up question assures a new topic. But sometimes, it's best to be honest with people. Use your judgement, but if you find that it would be best to keep your opinions to yourself, find a way to change the subject or "dodge the bullet" as they say. Honesty is really important though. No one likes a pathological liar. In fact, lying is quite frowned upon. If you feel the need to lie, try to take a different route that still leads you to results that make you happy.



2. Be clear
   

   You have GOT to be 100% perfectly clear with people when you talk to them. Are you someone that usually says Sure or I don't care or Whatever? These are "wishy washy" words. PEOPLE, just answer a question with a simple yes or no. And if you TRULY don't care, then just PICK one. Let's say your life depended on it, just pick one. If somebody asks you your favorite movies, don't say I don't know. Really? You DON'T KNOW. Just pick a movie you like. Your life isn't going to change if you accidentally tell someone your second favorite movie as opposed to your first. If someone asks you what you want to do on Friday, don't say I dunno, come up with an idea, if they shoot you down, who cares, at least you're thinking. Of all things, NEVER say we'll see. There's so much uncertainty in that phrase. The person you're talking to will be confused and not really know what to do. You need to be clear when communicating with others. That's the best way to avoid miscommunication and confusion.



3. Be sincere
   

   Just like when you listen, you need to be sincere when you talk to people. You really should mean what you say. Don't offer backhanded compliments. Sarcasm, though funny, is an easy way to frustrate people in a conversation. Don't respond to people halfheartedly. If you want to talk to someone about something or make a comment, the best way to do it is sincerely. This creates a sense of respect and people will want to talk to you more.

Communication is in important. Your relationships with people will grow for the better if you learn to communicate well and work on your skills. Let's face it, no one wants to talk to an awkward person.