I am sure that most of you have heard this cliche statement before, and possibly more than once. I am here to reiterate that communication is in fact one of the most important components of human life. It can mend relationships, assist in mental health, and help to avoid confrontation of any sort.

I am a firm believer in the spoken word as a form of release of emotions. I write to clear my head, I talk to my loved ones out loud when I have a problem, and I reach out to friends when I think they need someone to talk to. But I wasn’t always this way. I was a very selfish and self absorbed person. After many ego shattering life experiences, I eventually grew up into the person I am now. One of the most crucial aspects I took from those experiences was the importance of relationships with people that truly care about me, and how communicating with them was the only way to maintain that bond.

I suffered from depression and anxiety for most of my life and what got me out of my darkest days was reaching out, opening my mouth, writing my emotions, and seeking help. My ego always told me I could do it on my own, but my heart convinced me that “YOU DONT HAVE TO!”

So, I am here to reiterate: communication is key. Key to happiness, key to sanity, and key to survival in this crazy messed up world. Whether it’s telling your significant other that something bothered you, telling your family you need help with anything, or wanting to be there for a friend…just speak up.

Communication is also the most important aspect of professional life. You cannot succeed in life or in business without the ability to properly bring your thoughts across to your receiver. In my studies of the social sciences I learned “there is no such thing as a misunderstanding”. This may seem contradictory to what we grew up believing our entire lives but it is true. If something was misinterpreted by your intended receiver it means you did not construct the message properly. Empathy and understanding are the bottom line when trying to explain something. Your receiver may not think the same way as you, so make the effort to try to put it in terms that they will not misconstrue.

I will leave you with this, intention behind your efforts to communicate is what is going to drive your messages home. If you make the effort in communicating to better yourself, your life, and your relationships I can guarantee that you will see the fruits of your labor. It is no easy task but I know it is a valuable one.

-ee