As time passes on in this life of mine, I am learning the art of communication.
If I reflect long enough, I could say that most of my frustrations throughout
my life have been due to lack of communication; either on my part or the
other person. The answer seems simple enough, but if I think to all the advice
I've given to all the children I've worked with, communication should be alot
easier. So, once again, I learn my lessons from children and think about
practicing what I have advised others to do.
1. Ask why? If you don't ask, you won't know. It never hurts to ask.
2. Use your words. If you don't tell people what you need, how you feel
or how they made you feel, no one else will.
3. Take turns. Ever been in a conversation with someone who only talks
about themselves? Yes, it's good to listen and then share. It's called
a conversation.
4. Listen while the other person is talking. A while ago, my brother visited
Japan. He said the thing that the Japanese noticed about Americans is
that instead of listening to the other person, we are thinking in our head
what we are going to say next.
5. It's ok to pause and think about your response. If you needed to, tell
the other person you are thinking.
6. Ask questions like "What do you think should happen next?" or "How
do you see me helping in this situation?" Then you learn more about where
the other person's expectations are.
7. Never miss the chance to "use your words" and tell someone how proud you
are of them, how much you love them, or how appreciative of them you are.
Those are called "sparkling words" to another person's soul.
So, go out and communicate!
