communication

The way we communicate with others and with ourselves ultimately determines the quality of our lives” (Robbins, 2009)
Communication has been around as long as life has existed. It’s the way people commu-nicate, or don’t communicate that measures the peace in their lives. I am going to explore the different aspects of communication in this paper. Communication can be effective or outright dysfunctional. Not everyone has the same communication style which can require some conflict resolutions in communication. Ultimately, communication is necessary in relating to other people on every level in life; business, home and personal. This paper will discuss types of communication and demonstrate how you can ensure you are communicating effectively.
One type of communication is assertive communication. How we communicate; naturally express ourselves when our self esteem is intact. This type of communication gives us the confi-dence to communicate without games or manipulation. Being assertive allows for two people with different views to reach a resolution in a conflict. By demonstrating assertive behavior a person is able to get to their point and not get personal. An assertive individual is confident and exercises good judgment. (Podesta, retrieved April 20, 2009)
“The imparting or interchange of thoughts, opinions, or information by speech, writing, or signs, the art and technique of using words effectively to impart information or ideas.” That is one definition of communication. “The exchange of thoughts, messages, information, as by speech, signals, writing, or behavior.” Behavior is mentioned in this definition, as it plays a role in how people communicate. “Interpersonal rapport, the art and technique of using words effec-tively to impart information or ideas.” (communication. (n.d.). Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1). Retrieved April 26, 2009, from Dictionary.com website)
Communication is the process of transferring information from one source to another. Communication is commonly defined as "the imparting or interchange of thoughts, opinions, or information by speech, writing, or signs")Communication can be perceived as a two-way process in which there is an exchange and progression of thoughts, feelings or ideas towards a mutually accepted goal or direction. (Wikipedia, retrieved 2009)
Not everyone has the same communication style and some people don’t want to commu-nicate effectively at all. People that only have their own interests in mind are not willing to communicate effectively. The purpose of communication isn’t to make the other person agree with you or change their mind. The ultimate goal in communication is to understand each other. An example of dysfunctional communication is to act aggressively or passive aggressively. When a person has these types of aggressiveness, communication can rarely take place. When a person demonstrates passive aggressive behavior it prevents communication.
When someone is communicating in person body language can be as important as having a positive attitude. Nonverbal communication can be very dysfunctional as well. “Nonverbal communication is the single most powerful form of communication. More than voice or even words, nonverbal communication cues you in to what is on another person’s mind.” (Heathfield,)
Communication comes in many different forms with all the new technology available to-day. Technology is a way to transport communication but it can also confuse the message. “The more elaborate our means of communication, the less we communicate” (Priestly) Communica-tion is about relaying information both in work or school environment, do your best to stick with the facts and leave emotions out of it.
Remaining non judgmental and allowing others to express themselves without interrupt-ing or thinking about what you want to say requires discipline and maturity. Remaining in the present and focused on what is being communicated to you is the best way to actively listen in my opinion. A lot of us walk around on auto pilot and fail to truly hear what others say to us; by staying in the present and focusing we can truly communicate.