Do you know the message that you’re sending?

Quote: “Few realize how loud their expressions really are. Be kind with what you wordlessly say.” — Richelle E. Goodrich

Story:

Today, we turn to a new topic of communication. When we think of communicating powerfully, some people tend to think first about the big motivational speeches, like in Braveheart, or Independence Day, or MacArthur. At the same time, we all know that most of communication is non-verbal. For instance, our body posture, like whether our arms are crossed or placed in our lap, sends a message. Do you stand up straight, walk with confidence, or walk like Eeyore in Winnie the Pooh? People often search our faces and expressions for cues about communication. Do you show confidence, look angry, look depressed or look happy and full of possibilities? Our hand gestures, like touching our face, hiding our hands in our pockets, or gesturing with confidence to accentuate our points communicate different things to those around us. You probably already know that our dress, hair, and accessories are a form of communication. Did you know that even our hygiene communicates something about us to others? How you listen can communicate whether you are there to help or already know the answer, depending on whether you appear distracted, defensive, judging, interrupting, thankful, open or receptive. These all send messages about how we think of ourselves, our jobs, and others. Over the next few days, I want to expand even beyond these non-verbal ways of communicating so that you see that authentic communication means YOU are the message.

Action:

Take a moment and write down your own insights about non-verbal messages you might be sending.