Have you ever noticed how many leadership development resources emphasize effective communication? How many bosses will mark you down (or up!) for your communication skills? Have you ever thought about why it’s so important for your career success to be a good communicator?
In ancient times, some of the most powerful people in the tribe were the “magicians” who could cast “spells” with their words. While the popular image of a magician is someone who can recite certain words, the true power these tribal group leaders possessed what the ability to use words and nonverbal communication skillfully to express emotional and universal truths that resonated in their audiences. It was their ability to create an energetic way of BEING confident, assertive, receptive, courageous, agile and compassionate and then use multiple modes of expression to amplify this powerful state of being to the people around them with clarity and simplicity.
Put another way, communications is more than the words spoken; it’s the alignment of the words with the meaning and the quality of the person speaking that create a powerful effect of being understood in ways that are both inspiring and capable of being acted on effectively.
This “alignment” seems like a fuzzy concept, difficult to teach and difficult to learn, until you understand that it’s really about your own ability to have an intention, commit to it and express it to others with the power of your own commitment behind you. Once you line yourself up behind a meaningful intention, you’ll be surprised how easily others can understand what you say and do in pursuit of it.
Still seem abstract? Here’s a clue. You can ‘measure’ the power and effectiveness of your intentions by the power and effectiveness of your communications, but you can’t fix your communications patterns unless you fix your intentions first.
Start with your intentions. Get clear on what you intend for the other person to feel and understand. Focus on that intention and then speak and express yourself. Feel the difference.
