We seriously need to talk

If we only took the time to communicate, how many problems could we solve?

Lately we?ve seen and heard a lot of yelling, a lot of misunderstanding, a lot of quick action without apparent thought or any attempt at true communication. If we all (and I do mean ALL) stopped for a few minutes or even a few seconds and had a real conversation with others, what could we accomplish?

We have to put down our cell phones, at least long enough to look others in the eyes and to listen to what they are saying. We are so tied to our phones that our first response to anything is to text or tweet or videotape. Pure, instinctive reactions are not always helpful and can quite often be destructive. Let?s work on intentional positive action before incidents have a chance to arise and intensify:? Put down the electronic device and speak with others as humans.

Electronic devices have removed us from the reality of human communication. Nothing seems real, in real life. We can always delete our text or start the video game over. That?s not how it works in the human world. Words that come out of our mouths ? in haste and in anger, especially ? cannot be deleted or retracted. People that are hurt ? or worse ? cannot be revived if we restart the game.

How many problems could be solved ? or prevented completely ? with positive, constructive communication?

Try a new approach with business associates, with friends and family, and with strangers you encounter along your daily journey. Focus completely and totally on positive, constructive communication. Put down the phone and speak to the person in front of you. Listen when others speak. If you must send a text or an email (or write a post), think about how it will be perceived and used on the other end.

We still live in a human world. Communicate for good, for positive change, in your life and in the lives of others.

Let me know how it goes.