Hear That?

Hear That?

What’s the best way to communicate? If you said “talking,” that’s a good answer. But there’s a whole lot involved in good communication. Talking is important. To communicate well, you need to be able to express yourself in an understandable way. Talking too fast or not loudly enough can limit people from understanding you. But experts say nonverbal communication speaks louder than words. Those nonverbal cues include body language, facial expressions, eye contact, inflection, and tone of voice. Do you sound irritated or happy? Are you rolling your eyes? Are your arms crossed? Do you maintain eye contact, or do you seem distracted?

The other key to communication is the opposite of talking—it’s being silent and listening. Sometimes it’s hard not to interrupt, especially if you’re in an argument or if you get excited and want to say something. But staying quiet and focusing on what’s being said will help you understand better and respond more effectively. That’s why it says in the Bible, “The one who gives an answer before he listens—this is foolishness and disgrace for him” (Proverbs 18:13, HCSB). Always try to listen before you speak; otherwise you could sound foolish, like Macy:

Victoria: I’m having a terrible day.

Macy: Wasn’t that math assignment hard last night? Miss Jenkins is so unfair.

Victoria: Yeah, but history. Ugh. I can’t remember all those dates.

Macy (still thinking about math): Yeah, math homework should be outlawed.

Victoria: Did you even hear what I said?

Macy (still not listening): Why do we even have to do math? I’m not going to be a scientist.

Victoria: Hello, Macy. We’re talking about my history crisis here.

Macy (still in her own little world): What’d you get for problem six?

Victoria: Ugh.

Daddy-Daughter Time

While Victoria and Macy’s conversation may be a little exaggerated, listening is key to any good relationship. It’ll also help you do better in school. Practice your listening skills together. Have a conversation about your day. Daughters, you talk first. Dads, listen carefully and then repeat back to your daughter what she said, starting with “What I hear you saying is . . . (you don’t like math class, or whatever).” Speak in little bits, so it’s easy to remember and repeat back. When the daughter is done, it’s Dad’s turn to talk about his day. When you actively listen, you help create great communication.

What’s The Word?

The one who gives an answer before he listens—this is foolishness and disgrace for him.   Proverbs 18:13 (HCSB)