Listen to speak

A successful interpersonal and intrapersonal connection depends on effective communication. But the power of excellent communication doesn’t end there. Being able to speak effectively helps you in important life situations, including job interviews, business meetings, romantic relationships, friendships, and even internal monologues!

Eloquent and articulate communication is a lifelong skill with no expiration date. As long as you are surrounded by humans and grace this earth with your presence, you will always communicate both with yourself and those around you.

While effective communication may seem instinctive, not everyone gets it right all the time. Sometimes, things can go awry when someone misunderstands or misinterprets what we’re trying to say. This may lead to misunderstandings and conflicts.

For a clear conversation, it’s worthwhile to learn some important skills. With that in mind, here are some tips for communicating effectively:

#1 Keep a ear out and listen

Active listening is the key to a healthy and balanced conversation. While we do have a say or two in a conversation or tense situation, it’s also good to listen to what’s being said. This ensures that you’re
listening to the other party, and they’re most likely to return the favour as well.

It will do you good to remember that active listening is a two-way street. If you want to be heard, you have to be willing to listen as well. Attentive listening will also make others feel seen and heard.

TIPS TO BE A GOOD LISTENER:

>>Be a safe space for your loved ones.
>>Listen without interrupting.
>>Be comfortable with silence.
>>Ask thoughtful questions.
>>Validate their feelings.

#2 Focus on the speaker

When someone is speaking to you, be sure to focus your full attention on them so you can understand the message that they’re trying to convey. When you are chatting with someone, keeping your attention fully on them allows you to understand the meaning behind their words, reducing the possibility of miscommunication.

TIPS TO IMPROVE FOCUS WHEN SOMEONE IS SPEAKING TO YOU:
>>Avoid checking your phone.
>>Try not to fidget.
>>Maintain eye contact.
>>Nod to signal that you’re following the conversation.

#3 Try to set aside judgement

It can be difficult to have a conversation with someone whose opinions differ from our own or with whom we might not agree. But it’s these very contrasts that make the discussion more complex and widen our understanding of the variety of people in the world.

We don’t necessarily have to share the same opinions as the other person in order to interact with them effectively. Empathy and agreement are very different things. Being able to see things from another person’s point of view demonstrates maturity and strong empathy.

TIPS TO PRACTISE NON-JUDGEMENTAL BEHAVIOUR:
>>Understand cultural differences.
>>Ensure that you’re in the right state of mind to be able to communicate effectively.
>>Accept the fact that humans make mistakes and we can learn from the mistakes to be better.

#4 Manage your own emotions effectively

You need to be mentally, emotionally, and physically present to have a healthy conversation. This means that depending on the situation, you must be able to effectively accept and process emotions.

Allowing your emotions to take over can lead to misunderstandings or conflict, especially during vulnerable conversations or in professional settings. It hurts far worse when you act cruelly towards a helpless person. As a result, they might withdraw, and it might take more work to gain their trust and
persuade them to open up again.

TIPS TO MANAGE YOUR EMOTIONS EFFECTIVELY:
>>If you’re not in the right frame of mind to have a healthy conversation, let the speaker know in advance.
>>Don’t feel bad for postponing important conversations, as it gives you time to center yourself.
>>It’s okay to practice boundaries.

Whether you’re having an internal thought or a heart-to-heart with a loved one, we hope these suggestions will be helpful in your next chat. Remember that communication is key, but what opens the lock quicker is effective communication.