Improving Communication

Suggestions for better communication:

1. Make time for meaningful conversation. Build margin into your schedule, if you want to catch fish you have to set aside time to get the boat to the lake.
2. Make eye contact and avoid distractions. Turn off your electronic device and look into the other person's eyes, their eyes are the window into their soul.
3. Listen like an animal being stalked. Have you ever watched a National Geographic video of animals on the Serengeti of Africa, where a deer like animal stops and listens carefully because it senses danger is lurking in the brush and is worried that a lion is near.
4. Know the one you are communicating with. There is a priceless classic for marriage enhancement “The Five Love Languages” the emphasis is you want to talk at an understandable level you must first speak the language of the person you wish to talk with.
5. Ask clarifying questions. Statements like, I am not sure I understand what you meant by that comment. This is what I heard, is that what you intended to communicate?
6. Avoid problem-solving unless directly requested. Many times people are not looking for a solution, they don’t want a “fixer” they want to be heard.
7. Avoid using universal statements like always, and never. Never, ever use universal statements........unless asked, “Will you always love me?”
8. Avoid destructive criticism, instead be a part of a positive solution. Destructive criticism demolishes the communication environment, it is a communication ender! I have been praying about our conversation and I am amazed at your courage to take on this project if this is a good time I have a few thoughts about that might be valuable?
9. If you find yourself getting angry, hit the pause button. Often people are encouraged to count to ten.......or pray.