How Important Is Communication

Communication is not only important, but without it, human life would be non-existent. We have to be able to communicate on a personal level, both verbally and non-verbally. If there was no non-verbal communication, there would be no human reproduction.

Verbal communication is the way humans primarily communicate, so taking into account the person/s you are talking to and whether your intended meaning is at a level they can understand. Non-verbal allows others to verify any spoken communication, or make an interpretation of a situation with you. Also defines boundaries such as spatial and level of intimacy. Written communication - again, needs to be clear with the intended meaning. How you communicate depends on your level of intimacy with the person/s friend, ie, acquaintance, stranger and so on. Meaning, intention, purpose and focus all play a part.

I believe good communication is the key to a good relationship. If we communicate well with the people in our lives, we are able to better understand what the people around us want, need, expect of us, and what they are able to do and likewise, they will understand what we want, need, etc. This includes not just the people we live with, but our co-workers, doctors, service providers of many kinds...the list is endless.

The qualities should include being able to state your feelings, wants, needs, expectations, etc. honestly and in a clear manner without putting anyone down. When someone has done this, I feel it is then helpful to rephrase what you heard so you know you have understood their meaning clearly. If you have miss-understood something, this gives them a chance to clarify what they actually meant.

When people feel they have been understood, they feel like you value them, and that is a nice feeling.