Communication is so important

So many hurt feelings can be avoided through better communications. So many businesses can run more efficiently with better communication. It takes quite an effort by everyone to make effective communications happen.

One thing that digital communication has done is to make some communication more difficult. While social media has increased the quantity of communication, it has taken some of the meaning out of it. How often do people get involved in e-mail or text battles that lack understanding because the messages are misintepreted? I would say this happens a real lot.

There are some guidelines that you can follow that should work to overcome misunderstandings. First is to simply speak up. If you need clarification on any message from your friend, spouse, co-worker, boss, or anyone, just ask. What did you mean? Or how did you mean that? It is better to get clarification than to make decisions based on miscommunication.

Also, wait before reacting if you are not really clear about a message. Don't assume too much and act on something because you think that is what the other person meant. If you really don't know something, don't act upon it without clarification. We do this often where we form feelings or reactions based on what we interpret a message to be without clear understanding.

Communication is so important. Make it your objective to become a better communicator, both is sending messages and receiving them. Also work to make technology more effective for you and those with whom you communicate.