As an adult I was told this was to be a key in all my relationships, especially romantic. Now, I am not saying I am a pro but I feel I am pretty good at all of these but always working on them. If I had to pick one that was the most important these days, I would say communication is the one. Without this key one the other C’s will be hard to follow through on.
The definition of communication is the “sending and receiving of information”. To me that also includes listening to understand not just to respond. I have had many situations where communication is nonexistent or just to respond, but have also had instances where there is listening to understand as well. I am guilty of the first, and will be the first to admit it. I let my emotions overpower in the past, but now I think before I speak and make sure it is always with love and if a response is wanted that I do it the same with love.
Everyone is different in how they communicate something good, bad, big, or little to people, and even if speaking is hard, because like me you are a very emotional person, writing it is not a bad or wrong choice. Being able to express yourself in a comfortable and safe way that is best for you is better than not at all. It can be hard to talk about good and hard things but having the courage to follow through allows growth in so many ways.
When you find a relationship or even a friendship that is willing to communicate in such a healthy way hold on to that. Even if you don’t see eye to eye but still listen to understand or just agree to disagree that’s healthy. But talking at each other and not willing to be open to different perspectives close that. If you keep feeling like you are talking and not being heard or talked over that won’t change. Make sure it you have done all you can for you and then let there be silence. That’s ok to let it go. The commitment and the compromise is out the window if there isn’t good communication.
I have finally found a relationship and friendships that are willing to hear and talk and what a night and day it is. Sometimes it throws me off because it is so foreign for me, but let me tell you when you speak with love and understanding and wanting to actually understand the other it makes a world of difference. Having someone that wants to just listen and not immediately respond but think before they speak or actually try to make sure they are being clear, man oh man, keep them. That will be a relationship and friendship of growth and that is healthy.
No matter the generation it’s hard but realizing that whether the outcome is good or bad it is the best. Being open and willing will always be better in the long run.
Thank you to those that create patience in the process of listening to hear and understand and not react without being open. I appreciate and value you.
Consistently inconsistent 