I believe that one essential piece of knowledge or skill that everyone should possess is the art of effective communication. Communication plays a crucial role in various aspects of our lives, be they personal relationships, professional endeavours, or even academic pursuits. When we fail to communicate effectively, it often leads to misunderstandings and hampers the quality of our interactions. Therefore, I strongly believe that mastering the art of communication is imperative.
Communication Cache
In my opinion, there are three key elements to effective communication. Firstly, clarity is paramount. It is important to clearly express what we want to convey without any ambiguity. Secondly, the choice of words is crucial, as it directly impacts how our message is perceived. Expanding our vocabulary and using appropriate terminology can greatly enhance our communication skills. Lastly, pronunciation also plays a significant role in effective communication. The way we articulate our words can influence how others perceive us and our message.
Communication goes beyond the mere exchange of information; it is also a form of self-presentation. How we communicate reflects our personality and how we are perceived by others. Therefore, I firmly believe that honing our communication skills can greatly benefit us in various aspects of life. In relationships, effective communication can resolve conflicts and foster understanding. In professional settings, it enables us to convey ideas persuasively and engage with colleagues and clients effectively. Even in public speaking situations, being an articulate communicator can have a profound impact on influencing others.
To summarise, mastering the art of communication is not only necessary but also highly beneficial in navigating through life’s challenges and opportunities. By developing this skill, we can enhance our relationships, excel professionally, and make a lasting impression on others.
Now let’s talk about how we can improve our communication skill;
Ways to become a better communicator
Lose yourself
There may be 14 million different ways to become better, just as Dr. Strange saw an astounding 14 million potential outcomes. However, there was only one way they could triumph, and that was by initially falling short against Thanos. Similar to that, the only method you have to win is to first lose yourself, and that is the only option you have.
What I’m trying to say is that you have to abandon your identity first and engage in as much conversation as you can. Your biggest obstacle to effective communication is who you are. Psychology, emotional state, and interpersonal interactions are those aspects of your life that have an impact on who you are.
You have spent your entire life learning how to behave in particular ways around people and in particular situations. This incorrect conditioning is the main cause of communication obstacles. And as a result, the first step towards discussing something openly is to lose your identity.
If you have always been shy around your parents, then suddenly speaking up might seem like an odd idea to you and also to your parents. and now you are worried that your parents are worried because of your all-of-a-sudden odd behavior, which makes you even more worried, and this way you screw up your first step against opening up to them.
So, don’t think too much before starting. Lose your conditioning and start communicating with anyone you choose.
Don’t Practice
Practice makes a man perfect but remember no man is perfect.
So once you have broken all the barriers and set yourself in the abyss of discomfort, this will do much of the magic for you. Reason, discomfort cultivate courage, and acts of courage invite confidence. And once you start the perpetual machine by turning its wheel, the loop continues…
The concept is that the more you talk, the more awkward you feel, but ultimately, the more confident you get. As soon as this method becomes hands-on, your confidence takes over.
The key to practicing is to start conversations with people even when you have nothing to say. For introverted people who like to keep their mouths shut, this tactic is really useful and awful at the same time.
Moreover, conversing not only with others but also with oneself. People will certainly call you insane, but proceed anyhow. While alone in a room, communicate with yourself, record your voice, and listen to it. Examine your tone, accent, voice, and confidence. This will highlight not just your flaws but your strengths as well.
Sit and interact with yourself in front of a mirror. While speaking, use nonverbal gestures, and practice regularly. The outcome: You’ll notice improvements in the manner in which you speak to people and a surge in your level of confidence just one week afterward.
Science is simple; your brain doesn’t distinguish between talking to yourself in the mirror and talking to other people. The essence is to converse with others while maintaining the same degree of self-confidence and comfort that you do with yourself. In order to make your practice easier, read anything aloud. Refer to new words and expand your own vocabulary. Even if there isn’t any connection, try to use it.
Being a blogger, I have the clout to write any fucking thing I want.
Conclusion
Whether you wish to speak a foreign language with ease or just get better at communicating, practising is highly essential. As it is said, practising communication can transform introverts into influential speakers overnight, and if not overnight, then certainly it does.
and one factor that stands in the way of our practice is our identity. Instead of seeing the person we aspire to be, we still see ourselves as we are. As I’ve previously argued in my earlier blog i.e. are you committed enough?
“When you shift your identity first, then the behavior which is up there where your goals are, is in alignment with your identity.”
“If you keep your identity down there and are trying to act up there, then you are actually acting in conflict with how you see yourself. And that’s why that doesn’t work.”
This is the reason I initially talked about letting go of your identity and adopting one you like, which would clearly differ from person to person. It also depends on who we consider to be the perfect communicator. In my case, it’s people I enjoy listening to on podcasts, like Simon Sinek, Jay Shetty, Chris Hemsworth, etc.
Who is the model communicator in your eyes? Identify them, pay attention to them, and then practice speaking as much as you can. You will see the difference in a matter of months.