Why is communication so hard? Telling someone what’s on your mind shouldn’t be that difficult. But somehow it is. Finding the right words is hard. But why? Isn’t it better than assuming what’s on someone’s mind and then realizing that’s not what they were thinking at all? Yet, we do it time and time again.
We hold our feelings inside. We are afraid of other people’s reactions. We are afraid if we speak the truth then they will be upset with us. But don’t we find when we do speak the truth the outcome is usually much more pleasant?
A lot of miscommunication starts with text messages. We don’t talk on the phone like we used to so people cannot read the inflection in other’s voices. We don’t spend as much time face-to-face, therefore, words are misread and feelings tend to get hurt.
It’s hard because texting is much easier in this busy, busy world. But then we just assume something and feelings get hurt. People don’t ask each other what’s going on and then time passes away and friendships get lost.
I am guilty of doing it myself. Rarely does something upset me but when it does, then I tend to hold onto it for a long time. I think because it takes a lot to hurt or offend me that when someone does, especially on purpose, it makes my blood boil. And it makes it hard for me to get over especially if they don’t take the first step in admitting they were wrong.
Many times it’s easier to let relationships go instead of putting in the work. I think that depends on what kind of relationship it is. If it’s a healthy friendship then yes, take a deep breath, suck it up and make the phone call. If it’s a toxic relationship then maybe it’s better to go your separate ways. Either way, evaluate, think about it, and decide what that relationship is worth to you.
In the end, communication is key in all relationships whether it’s in marriage, friendships, family, or another type of relationship. Telling someone you like their outfit, their hair, that you love them, or even just please and thank you can mean so much. So don’t be afraid to say what’s on your mind. Speak loud and speak strong.
Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash
