Communication: Uniting or dividing?

A few days ago I was reflecting on the progress of my refocusing into communication coaching. I am already seeing increased interest and desire for help from individuals, couples, and companies. In our post-pandemic world, more and more people are acknowledging their need for more effective communication. It is one of the most powerful factors in society.

I was reminded of two accounts in the Bible that are centered on communication. First, in Genesis, the story of the Tower of Babel shows how confusion in communication can powerfully divide us, and thwart our corporate plans. In contrast, the account in Acts of the day of Pentecost shows that hearing in our unique language(s) brings unity and understanding.

Nelson Mandela acknowledged this power when he said “When you talk to someone in a language he understands, it goes to his head. But if you talk to someone in his own language, it goes to his heart.”

That truth can be applied in many ways. Wise employers know the value of reaching their employees’ hearts, not just their heads or their wallets. Parents know the joy of heart connection with their children, and the pain misunderstanding can cause. Business owners see greater success when they can establish a rapport with their customers at a deeper level. The best educators understand the need to address each student in language he or she can receive and embrace: we never fulfill our potential when taught mechanistically. Friends learn to communicate honestly and deeply by accepting each other’s differences.

So communication can unite or divide. And unity through effective communication is more powerful than division flowing from misunderstanding.

The beauty of the Communication IQ™ system from Life Languages™ is that anyone can learn to communicate more effectively by using the words and actions appropriate to the setting. We can also learn how to recognize distress patterns when communication is not flowing well, using these insights to make a difference and reduce miscommunication.

I have seen this work again and again; in workshops, in coaching, in conversations and in relationships. It is my passion to reduce communication distress and teach the science of communication mastery. Our world needs more unity - let’s learn to communicate more effectively to that end.