Communication is Key
Communication is a concept that a lot of people do not understand. Some may think it is simply speaking to or texting someone but after studying communication for the past three years, I have learned that it is not just about what you say to people; it is about much more. There are deeper aspects of communication that I want you all to grasp which are:
Empathy
Listening with the intent to learn
Comprehension
Empathy really goes a long way in relationships. Having the ability to feel for others and be able to understand their point of view is incredibly important regardless of the type of relationship. I'm sure you all have heard of the show on HBO Max called Euphoria. This show is a prime example of poor communication. *Season two spoiler alert* when Cassie and Maddy have the falling out because Cassie slept with Nate, the communication between the two is awful.
Maddy was obviously upset due to the lack of trust and loyalty from Cassie however, Cassie shut down and completely ignored the way Maddy was feeling. She didn't understand why Maddy was upset considering she and Nate weren't even together at the time but that was not the point. All Maddy wanted was for Cassie to own up to her actions and acknowledge that it was fuc*ed up. But instead, Cassie has yet to speak to her about it.
Anyways, the point I'm trying to explain is that even in times of conflict, you have to acknowledge the other person’s feelings instead of invalidating them. You have to be open-minded and be able to see where they are coming from and if you cannot understand, then at the very least, recognize their feelings.
Listening with the intent to learn is something I have had to explain to my partner. This is a complicated yet simple topic that a lot of people, especially my age, do not understand. When someone is explaining their side of things or simply telling a story, you should listen to them with the intent to learn. For example, I have had to have conversations with my partner about his actions and how they hurt me but all he heard was me attacking him. Instead of listening with the idea that everyone is coming for you or attacking you, listen with the intent to digest the knowledge and do better.
Lastly, comprehension. This last point is something I have honestly learned through social media. At the end of the day, you can communicate with someone all you want but if they do not have the capability to hear you and understand what you are saying, you will continue to be in a constant cycle of telling someone the same thing over and over again.
Communication is intense but it doesn't have to be if you and your partner friend, coworker, or whoever, puts in the work to understand one another.
