Communication is an invaluable tool to succeed in business and relationships, for nothing thrives in a climate of uncertainty and life can only grow in safe environments.
Our entire interpersonal life is dependent on the ability to communicate effectively. Effective communication and effective leadership are closely intertwined. It is through communication that we bridge differences, understand contexts, develop empathy, foster closeness and connection, and create a safe environment for business and relationships to thrive.
There where effective communication exists, a discussion or a disagreement does not necessarily represent a crack in the relationship or a threat, but an opportunity for learning that serves both the individual growth and the growth of the relationship. And growth is key.
" There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you"
The root of the word “communication” in Latin is communicare, which means to share, or to make common. James Carey defined communication as "a symbolic process whereby reality is produced, maintained, repaired and transformed". On the surface, it may seem simple. You send a message and somebody else receives it. You speak, and another person hears you. But no.
To have effective, working relationships you have to be aware of your thoughts, feelings, and needs. You have to be skilled at making your thoughts, feelings, and needs known to others while remaining receptive to the thoughts, feelings, and needs of others so that nobody gets lost in translation, assumptions perceptions and doubt. If you want to control your outcomes and destiny you have to think and act “on purpose” and deliberately.
Successful leadership and relationships don't happen by random and they have one thing in common: they all start with good communication.