Effective Communication
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Yeditha Satyanarayana MurthyEffective Communication
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Yeditha Satyanarayana MurthyEffective Interpersonal Communication can be achieved through conscious
awareness of the following Principles:
1. That we treat each other with respect
So how does that help? It means we can put the energy we spend 'demonising'
others and complaining about them to better use, like enjoying ourselves and being
present for loved ones instead of continuously distracted by our difficulties with
others.
2. That we do not interrupt one another
So how does that help? It means we find out that, by not interrupting others and
focusing our attention on what they say, we become listened to ourselves a lot more!
Our conversations become more interesting, useful, worthwhile and sometimes even
joyful, instead of difficult, tiring, boring or anxious.
3. That we have the right to pass
So how does that help? It means that we can choose not to do something instead of
feel we have to or that we 'should' when we don't want to. It means acknowledging
that trying to change others is not only not very loving, but is also impossible. It
means acknowledging that when others try to change us, it can feel very
uncomfortable.
It means taking responsibility for our choices and actions - because no-one else can.
4. That we do not volunteer others
So how does that help? It means recognising the importance of valuing others' right
to choose and not to use our language in a way that assumes we can choose for
them.
5. That we speak only for ourselves (We speak in the 'I' - often called using 'I'
statements)
So how does that help? It means making more accurate statements with our
communication - instead of assuming we can speak for others, we only speak for
ourselves. This saves a lot of unnecessary resentment and resistance towards us.
6. That we speak but not too often or for too long
So how does that help? It means acknowledging that filling up 'air time' in a
conversation prevents us from connecting with others through our communication. It
means we gain the opportunity to learn and be creative through hearing others'
views about what we say.
7. That we challenge the behaviour and not the person
So how does that help? It means that difficult situations can be 'de-personalised' and
therefore become an opportunity for learning and creativity rather than a personal
'battle'. It means using a more effective approach to communicating, removing the
unnecessary personal labels and destructive comments. It means keeping a focus
on the issue, allowing for a more creative response to any difficult situation.
8. That we respect confidentiality
So how does that help? It means generating a feeling of trust, safety and in some
situations, intimacy through valuing that which is important to another, and
acknowledging and respecting their vulnerability in relation to an issue.
9. That it is ok to make mistakes
So how does that help? It means acknowledging the fact that we are not robots and
that mistakes are opportunities for learning, connection and insight rather than
opportunities to condemn another - as if we are ourselves 'perfect'. It means
adopting a no-blame approach to difficult situations.
