Happy 2024! Let’s start this new year off in a clear fashion! In my work as a clinical psychologist I am often helping people with their communication styles. In “communication 101,” as I like to refer to it, there are two main parts. There is learning to clearly and compassionately speak our truth and then the flip-side of that coin is learning to truly listen. One of the most common emotional needs that we have that I see as regularly going unmet in people’s day-to-day lives is feeling truly heard and understood by others. I’m sure you can recall a time where you were trying to talk to your partner or other family member, friend, or coworker and felt like they were missing your point and not really hearing you. When you’re in conversation with relatives and friends, give them the gift of listening to UNDERSTAND them rather than trying to focus on what you want your reply to be. Mirror back to them what you hear them saying and what they are feeling. Needing to strategize a reply in your mind while they talk won’t be necessary, because the reply will naturally come as you attune yourself to what the other is trying to convey. You will likely meet their deep emotional need to be and feel heard - a truly invaluable gift to offer. With any luck, your role-modeling can help them reciprocate this for you! Wishing you a Happy New Year and smooth communications! Much love to all. 💖✨
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