|
Categories - Copywriting - Shopping - Free Online Business Help - Telecommunications
Services
Articles: Self - Four Truths of
Effective Communication
By Mark
Susnow
You're on the way to the airport. You get on the
plane with a book that you've been planning to read for quite some
time. As you open your book, you glance at the person next to you. A
few minutes later you are asked a question and you reluctantly
answer. You lower your book a bit to be polite and after a few
minutes you find yourself putting your book down and engaging in a
conversation, although with a lack of enthusiasm. And then the
person next to you, let's call him John, makes an observation about
you that's quite perceptive and sensitive. You start to become
curious about who John is and in the course of the conversation, he
tells you of an experience he has only shared with a few people. You
let John know that you have had the same experience. By now you're
totally engaged and listening to every word he says. You notice
every nuance in the inflection of his voice and the way he moves.
Time seems to stand still and the next thing you know the plane
lands. You say goodbye to the kindred soul you have just met.
Wouldn't you love to have these experiences more often? You
feel heard and everything seems possible. It is communication at its
highest level and it's a lost art. You can have these experiences
more often if you embrace the four fundamental truths of
communication.
The first truth is to know that what we all
want on a deeper level is the ability to connect with another, to
touch each other's soul. Unfortunately, too many of our
conversations are just an exchange of ideas and information and we
rarely penetrate the surface. Most of our focus is on how we are
going to respond to what is being said instead of listening. When we
know that what the other person really wants is connection, there is
common ground to build upon. With this foundation, we can build
relationships that deepen and empower those involved.
The
second truth is to know that listening involves much more than just
listening to words. It is tuning into the energy beyond the words.
It is understanding the needs and feelings of the other person. It
is about being totally engaged and at the same time being in the
rhythm of life. Yes, it takes a lot of energy but you will be
energized by what you get back. Imagine living in a world where you
are truly listening and fully engaged.
The third truth is to
know that you must take responsibility for the quality of your
communication. Because we all have long standing attitudes and
beliefs we sometimes find ourselves trying to convince the other
person of our viewpoints. Being right then becomes the goal of the
interaction rather than communication and the next thing you know
you are in a full-fledged argument. Just think of what happens when
you discuss politics or religion. Is being right more important than
experiencing one of those magical moments?
The fourth truth
is that communication is a process and an art. Being a masterful
communicator doesn't happen over night but it starts with the
intention to experience more connection in your busy life. Just like
other art forms, i.e. dancing or music, their is a natural ebb and
flow in the learning cycle. As your commitment deepens you notice
that you are having frequent glimpses of the magic that is possible
in your life. The ultimate communication occurs when you are able to
touch anothers soul and share who you are. This new-found magic then
becomes the gateway to a more fulfilling life.
At our core
level we all have the same human needs and desires. We want to know
that we matter and that our life has meaning and purpose. We also
have the need to love and to be loved. When we accept and recognize
that we all have these same basic human needs and desires we realize
that we are part of one human family. When we work together as one,
what is possible in our lives, communities, and the world expands.
Embracing the 4 fundamental truths of communication and
applying them to your daily life is a gift to all involved. As a way
of reaching out to others and connecting with them please share this
letter with the friends in your circle and let them know about the
advantages of being on the journey. Part of my journey has been
listening and learning from all the teachers who bless my life. Your
suggestions and comments contribute to my learning and help me
expand and evolve. Keep them flowing.
Journey On
Mark Susnow has a
unique background. Formerly a successful trial attorney for 30
years, as well as musician, he integrates what it takes to be truly
prosperous in the world with the inner wisdom unfolded to him
through years of yoga and meditation practice. As a personal coach,
leadership consultant and inspirational speaker, Mark provides
inspiration and motivation to many business leaders and
professionals. He knows what it means to have a big vision and has
demonstrated the courage and energy it takes to accomplish it.
Consider contacting Mark and be sure to visit his website: http://www.inspirepossibility.com
|
