Communication Dynamics :
Situation and Context of the communication
So last week, we covered about “Our Messages” the way we communicate, can influence the outcome and the process of communication. This week look at the “Situation or Context” of our communication that can influence the communication that we have.
The “situation or context” of the communication can greatly foster good relationships when conversations are held in a warm, friendly, open and fair manner and with respect. This way of communication strengthens the bonds of the relationship and community unity. Difficult situations that needed to be communicated and dealt with, are also conducted in a fair and respectful manner.
We observe some elements that we need to take into consideration when communicating :
a) Place
We observe the place where the communication is taking place. There are many chat groups created today with our family, friends and community. Some chat groups are purely for everyday conversations that are informal, relax, fun and anything goes. We also have community related chat groups ie residential group, religious group, eco-friendly groups, pets, baking etc, where chats are less formal but in the context of the interest of the group. Also, we have business only chatgroups ie with work colleagues, business partners that are more specific and formal, to the tone and message of the group. We adjust our communication accordingly towards the type of group that we are in. Our way of communicating is as according to the nature of the group ie business only, family only, serious bakers only, and we observe and live their specific rules and ways of communication as required in the group.
For example, we communicate formal business or economic related news and trends relating with the business groups. Any other communications ie jokes, good morning wishes, are not welcomed and considered out of place and improper.
b) Conditions
The condition of the person and ourselves when we are communicating can affect our communication. I observe what I am feeling, am I upset, too excited, relax, happy or stressed during the communication? What about the person that I am communicating with, am I aware of how he/she is feeling at the moment? Is he/she able to hold the conversation or perhaps, one of us need to calm down before we can continue with the conversation. Understanding the condition of the persons when communicating is important and necessary especially when it is a difficult topic that is being shared or discussed. This can help manage a good communication or it can easily spiral out of control.
c) Time and Context
We too observe the time and context of the communication especially in difficult conversations. We ask what is the right time to talk about this topic, perhaps a time where both are not too busy, for the lack of time may cause us to feel rushed. We may consider this topic for sharing as important and heavy and we need to give it due time and space. For example, when relaying or sharing important decision that we have made and it may have consequences on others, or difficult family issue or difficult health issues etc. One may also, note the context and place of the conversation, perhaps a private chat or phone call is better than in chat group, or perhaps a coffee session at a neutral location that is quiet and conducive for the nature of the discussion rather than doing it over whatsapp or zoom.
This way of thoughtful communication, helps the difficult message to be conveyed in an appropriate manner, taking into consideration of the wellbeing of the person before me. It can help to minimise difficulties that may arise from misunderstanding. We may need to plan ahead the time and space that is suitable with the relevant person in mind. This can lead to a meaningful communication, that can strengthen the bond between the two-party involved despite the difficult conversation.
To conclude:
The above and the last couple of weeks on Communication dynamics : our relational capacities, our thoughts and thinking, our feelings and our body and the messages we sent influence our communications. Our inner disposition of the whole person can greatly influence our way of communicating.
The way we think or perceive the situation, the emotional state of the person, and the way our body speaks… can influence the communications and its outcome, favourable or not. We note also, how the other person respond and receive our messages, can affect our inner disposition and we can react from there, positively or negatively. The “messages” that we give to others, ie by our choices of words, phrases or tone, clear and well-structured allows the right intended message to be receive by the other party fostering growth in that relationships. Also, the appropriate “situation or context” greatly foster good relationships when it is warm and friendly. Difficult conversation or issues discussed in an open and fair manner, with respect, given its rightful place and time can indeed help foster better relationship despite the difficulties.
Join us again for the next week for the final write up on the communication series. We will look at how to manage difficult communications. How can we manage it? If you have any or questions or needing any help on communication and relational difficulties, do get in touch with me, Book an appointment, or Contact Us. I would be happy to assist. Have a great weekend ahead
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To read past weeks articles,
Introduction : Constructive Use of Communication
Part 1 : Communication Interaction Dynamics
Part 2 : Communication Dynamics : “Me” in Communication | Our relational capacities”
Part 3 : Communication Dynamics : “Me in Communication | Our thoughts and thinking”
Part 4 : Communication Dynamics : “Me in Communication | Our Feelings”
Part 5 : Communication Dynamics : “Me in Communication | Our Body Speaks”
Part 6 : Communication Dynamics : “Our Messages in Communication”
