When you have a problem with someone, do you talk to him or her about it first? Or do you talk to your friend, who then might talk to another friend? Think about how much sooner problems would be solved if you faced them head on. It might be easier to vent to a friend, but the only way things will change is if you talk to the person you're having a problem with.
Similarly, if you like someone and want him or her to know, find a way to tell that person. It's fun to gush to your best friend about a cute guy in your class, but nothing will happen if you don't actually talk to him.
People spend a lot of time talking about their issues to everyone who isn't directly involved. A conflict between two people can quickly spread to four, then eight, and so on. It's okay if you need a friend's advice, but make sure it's only a stepping stone to facing the person you really need to talk to. Try not to bring other people into a situation unless it's absolutely necessary.
If we all stopped talking about people and instead talked to people, there would be less gossip and less drama. We wouldn't need to say things like, "He said this," or "She said that," because we would hear things directly from the source. We wouldn't have to play a giant game of telephone and alter facts when relaying stories.
It's ironic that we have so many ways to communicate with others, yet we have an abundance of problems that arise from miscommunication. The best way to resolve an issue is by talking to the other person - specifically face to face. Tone and expression are easily lost through text, so hearing a person's voice and seeing his facial expressions prevents you from overanalyzing what came across your phone screen.
Some people think talking face to face to someone about a problem is intimidating, but they need to work through that and realize it is basic communication and the best way to resolve an issue.
While you shouldn't be afraid to speak up when you have something to tell another person, don't have a complete disregard for social cues. You can still share your thoughts, but make sure it's in an appropriate environment.
Also, don't expect people to read your mind. Even if you know someone really well, don't assume he can understand your subtext and get angry when he can't. Be clear with what you say and what you mean.
Talking directly to people involved in a situation shouldn't be as stressful as people make it out to be. We get anxious because we don't want to appear confrontational, but that's all in our heads.
You, just like every other human being, have a voice. Use it, take action in your own life, be honest, and actually talk to people.
