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Thursday, September 22, 2011

Best Piece of Advice #12


Just Because You’re Talking, Doesn’t Mean You’re Speaking the Same Language!!


I’m sure it comes of no surprise when I say, communication is key, right? Of course not, we’re given this piece of advice all the time where relationships are concerned. Though common knowledge too many, this can be an ill mastered art for others. What do I mean when I say just because you’re talking it doesn’t mean you’re speaking the same language? I mean just that!! Have you ever sat with someone (a spouse, partner, mate, friend, booty call, etc.) seemingly having the same conversation only to realize when it’s over you have no idea what the two of you were talking about? I’m sure you have.

How does this happen? Easy, at some point the message got jumbled or distorted and though you were speaking English, the other person heard French. In any relationship you have to learn to speak a person’s language in order to effectively communicate your message to that person, which is what brings me to the question; what language is your partner speaking? I read a wonderful book outlining the 5 love languages we all tend to speak in some form or another and why it’s so important to learn your own love language and that of the person you are in relationship with at the time.  According to Gary Chapman’s book ‘The 5 Love Languages’ they are: 1. Words of Affirmation, 2. Quality Time, 3. Receiving Gifts, 4. Acts of Service, and 5. Physical Touch. Each love language is descriptively outlined in this wonderfully written book for married couples however, an excellent tool for single folks as well!

Discovering yours and your partners love language gives you a greater understanding of how that person views and accepts love in a relationship. We can talk to someone all day long, if they can’t understand our message, the language we are speaking in or, the purpose of our communication (conveying love and affection) becomes useless or an argument at worst. Each language has its own very unique set of identifying qualities and wonderful rewards when you can speak them fluently. Though this piece at first glance may sound like a book review it is ONE OF THE BEST PIECES OF ADVICE I HAVE EVER HAD THE PLEASURE TO RECEIVE! Removing communication barriers from any relationship is a definite plus!

Nevertheless, understanding someone’s response to your communication is even better! Check this book out and gain more than just a better way to communicate; furthering the knowledge of who you are and what language you speak in is priceless. Not to mention, understanding your partner better costs far less than paying to learn to speak French. Good journey!! 




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