Communication is the means by which we share and exchange information. This information can be understood through the way it is distributed toward its targeted audience. Admittedly, a fair amount of people today continuously worry about their own way of communicating. However, if you take some time to think about it, you’re actually really good at communicating, no matter what type of person you are. The only difference individuals have between their ways of communicating is their responsive behaviors. For instance, I tend to consider myself as a quiet yet serious character until I get to know people. In the meantime, I attempt to converse in ways that, not only shape my persona continuously, but help me effectively communicate. From experience to learned skills, I develop my conversations based off both past and present interactions. As you probably determined, this applies to you as well.
To take this even further, our communication can be even more effective when we consider who we’re communicating with. You can feel comfortable with how you communicate, but how often is what you actually communicate received appropriately? Of course, we don’t want anyone getting the wrong ideas. That’s why, depending on the situation, it’s important to be aware of the present circumstances.
School
We all have had our fair share of group projects, and I respectfully admit my disgust for the lack of proper communication in my past projects. I’ve learned that groups, depending on each individual’s competence, can help or hinder the progression of a project. The most important part to discuss is each one’s abilities, knowledge, and understanding toward the assignment before initiation. In the wise words of Samwise Gamgee, “Share the load” is appropriate here, within reason. Nevertheless, I’ve noticed project after project students are often hesitant to confirm the group’s consensus, which leads to imminent confusion. Yes, I too have fallen victim, but it’s about time I get past the awkward silence and speak up.
Work
If you want to get a good job you have to learn to effectively communicate and prove by word that you’re more than capable. Sure, the degree, resume, and competence can meet their requirements, but what use is a smart individual without the necessary means to communicate? Employers look for people who can work effectively and efficiently within a group environment to accomplish a set of team goals or projects. If you’re nothing more than brains and willpower, how can others benefit from what you have to offer if you can’t communicate? This is something I have to constantly remind myself about.
Relationships
As with work and group projects, you also learn about more ways to communicate in relationships. I don’t have firsthand experience in this department, but I can tell you the application is no different within a friendship. How we communicate with our friends and peers is incredibly crucial when we try to get a message across. Since we have various methods to communicate, either by text or word of mouth, we can easily be misunderstood. In all relationships, honesty and trust are the most important factors for building a stronger connection over time. Your love for someone else can only be proven through your effective way of communicating your honesty, trust, and care for them. Otherwise, is it really love if your words are just words?
On the whole, anyone can communicate. It's just a matter of deciding whether or not the way we communicate is enough to get the main point across. Sometimes we undermine the significance of our communication and settle with simplified 21st century vernacular, which can be understood in casual settings but still remains fragmented and extremely informal. Nevertheless, it's a learning process for everyone, but I believe people can make a difference.
