Communication is the ultimate keystone of civilization. Without the development of a sophisticated transmission of ideas, we as a species would be little more than fire fearing, grunting animals. Over the years we have developed and adopted several different communication tools.

Our technology is centered on our ability to communicate with ease. Mobile phones, text messaging, emails and Face book have all been developed to allow us to connect with one another. Communication is the fabric of our lives, and yet even with all of these tools and gadgets we still fall short of communicating effectively.

Some would argue that it is the very proliferation of this technology that has caused new communication barriers. In an age where we can instantly communicate with one another across the globe we have forgotten the importance of being personal and in the moment. There is great power in connecting with the person across from you, in being human together.

The problem is that words are only part of the equation. That which goes unsaid is so much more important— it is our body language, our tone of voice, the look in our eyes. Without these we are only getting part of the message. Now I realize that there are physical laws to space and time which often prevent us from sitting down together.

We all work different jobs and shifts, have lives to lead and other distractions that are in many ways far more important. So, we rely on the more convenient and less effective forms of communication. This truthfully is okay, so long as we remember the deficiencies that come with it.

Communication must be open and dynamic. It can never be one-way. Each and every one of us should feel comfortable approaching anyone in our lives to discuss any topic. We should all know that as a community we are safe to talk and to listen to each other.

Noted psychologist and international peace maker, Marshall Rosenberg, developed what he called a needs-based language for non-violent communication. He taught us that by communicating our needs without being judgmental, we can resolve any conflict. Once we as a people have our needs met we are able to flourish as individuals. We become happier, more productive and capable of groundbreaking creativity.

This shouldn’t be some cerebral idea that doesn’t apply to our everyday lives. Communicating effectively is vital to what we do every day. In a world fraught with potential dangers a breakdown in communication can be worse than just hurt feelings and misunderstanding. It can mean someone’s job, or even their life. If you have a need that isn’t being met, or you need to acquire or pass on some vital information, don’t be afraid to speak up. No one knows what’s going on inside your head but you, and only you can be the arbiter of how effectively you communicate with others.

So don’t be afraid to approach your supervisor and let them know when you need to be supported or empowered. Boldly tell your co-worker that you need help with a project or a other job duty. Have confidence when you tell your family that you all need a break and should head to Disney World. Whatever the case might be you must clearly communicate when your needs aren’t being met. And, we all must have the courage to listen to others as they share their needs with us so that together we can find solutions for either meeting each other’s needs or alternatives if those needs can’t be met in the moment.

By having this type of open dialogue, we as a community will be in a position to do amazing things together.

I leave you with this quote by author Shannon L. Alder – “When you give yourself permission to communicate what matters to you in every situation you will have peace…Putting a voice to your soul helps you to let go of the negative energy of fear and regret.”

And, as always - Thank you for taking the time to read what I've written and please feel free to comment or share.