Lately, I've been reflecting on a key lesson learned the hard way. In an attempt to be 'efficient' with my communication, I've often been brief, and unintentionally, it sometimes came off as rude. It's a jarring realization to see how this approach has actually slowed things down, instead of speeding up the process as intended.
This led me to dig deeper into the art of communication, and I've discovered some truths. Providing ample context when explaining, leaving a detailed voice note, or writing a comprehensive memo might seem tedious. However, such thoroughness can prevent misunderstandings and the resultant tension that arises when someone perceives an ill intention in your message.
Communication, particularly during collaborations, should be driven by respect and positive intentions. Even if there are some exceptions, if the true goal is effective collaboration, communication should facilitate it, not hinder it.
In this journey, I've learned that texting—particularly on delicate or ambiguous topics—can often lead to confusion. So, before you send that short, context-free text, take a moment to reconsider.
The goal of communication is not just to inform but also to evoke emotions. People we respect and love should feel exactly that from our words—respect and love. Our words, our vibe, our context should make them feel cherished.
Even in mundane conversations, remember, people may try to interpret the unspoken words, leading to unnecessary misunderstandings. So, let's not waste any more time. Let's not add friction to our relationships. It's worth taking those extra five seconds to communicate in a way that fosters understanding and appreciation.
In conclusion, it's not about being brief; it's about being clear and mindful. Let's aim for that in our communications.