Communication. One of our biggest challenges is developing great communication skills. The art of good communication is critical to having everyone understand the issues, the potential solutions, and the actions that are required for effective change. The technologies that are available to us today certainly provide tools for more effective communications but in many instances the real message is often lost without the verbal or face-to-face process of communication. Too often it seems people misunderstand these electronic messages or even words on a page so that the real message is not received. This can and does lead to conflict as a significant part of good communication is the body language and facial expressions of the person with whom you are communicating. Take a moment to reflect on your own communications and what you can do to ensure that your message gets across clearly so that actions can follow that are positive and meaningful.

“There is more than a verbal tie between the words common, community, and communication.... Try the experiment of communicating, with fullness and accuracy, some experience to another, especially if it be somewhat complicated, and you will find your own attitude toward your experience changing.” - John Dewey