Getting past the 'small-talk' to building more effective communication
A couple of weeks ago I had an experience that has prompted me to write this blog.
Whilst reading through some WA newcomers' bios, I came across a remarkable one written by a young woman. She described having recently experienced several major life challenges which included her dad's bereavement, personal ill-health, and loss of employment.
As I read her story, I immediately felt compassion.
I wanted to reach out and let her know that I understood how she might be feeling after experiencing multiple losses. (I went through similar experiences 6 years ago).
However, instead of reaching out, I noticed I felt 'frozen' by indecision. My head was thinking of a carefully worded message to send her. My heart wanted to respond with empathy.
I didn't know how best to express this in a message, without coming across as sounding overly sympathetic or patronising. After overthinking my response and ended up not responding.
Being unable to respond naturally and effectively really bothered me for several days afterward. I knew that I wasn't being true to myself.
" To the young woman,
Your story resonated with me, this message is for you. I can imagine what it feels like to have experienced your losses. I understand how you might be feeling. I have shared similar experiences to yours.
Best wishes with your journey. "
This experience has taught me valuable lessons of listening and following my intuition and acting with integrity, no matter what the situation. Don't allow the 'online medium' to get in the way of a natural human response.
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Each one of us have our own stories to tell, which is why I stay humble and keep myself grounded at all times. In life, we win some, we lose some. 💜 Thank you for being and staying human. The world needs more of it.
Very true, Ruth! I tend to try and respond exactly the way that I feel, and let the chips fall where they may!
Jeff
Life is a challenge. It's always up and down. Take care of the mindset. How we respond to a situation will determine the outcome.
Blessings...
I feel the same way sometimes but found it's best to overcome the thought and reach out to the person.
It might be those words of consolation that the person needs most at the time.
Thank you for sharing.