Become an active and conscious listener: Do not listen simply to respond to someone’s problem or idea. Be genuinely interested in what they have to say and give them your undivided attention. Sometimes, even listening to silent pauses in a conversation gives you deep insight into the other person’s state of mind.
Become aware of how feelings impact communication: When we are heightened by our emotions, we often do not communicate with the right words or the right tone. This awareness of the self allows us to become empathetic to other people’s emotions and the resulting problems in their communication. Give yourself and others grace and compassion.
Mindfully observe non-verbal cues in your conversation: The way people use their body language, their facial expressions, their eye contact or lack thereof, and how they use their voice and tone can often give invaluable insight. Simultaneously, become mindful of your own body language and other non-verbal cues and assess whether you are aligned with the words you are speaking.
Read more books and articles: When you engage your mind in reading, you develop a deeper understanding of the power, meaning, and context of words. A wider vocabulary bank with help you pick the right words in the right situation and will give you the ability to derive meaning from another’s person’s vocabulary as well.
Handle conversations with an optimistic mindset: When we approach others with positivity, gratitude, and kindness, we open the channels for more honest and genuine interactions. This simple shift in your approach can make a large difference in how effective your communication is.