Is the Message You Send the Message You Intend?

Posted October 15, 2009 · Filed Under Accountability · 2,463 views · 6 Comments  

It’s certainly a gross understatement to say relationships are complicated. Who we are and how we act are influenced by so many things seen and unseen, and the same is true for everyone else. Relating to others can feel like walking through a mine field. One misstep and boom! – something unexpected blows up in your face.

We are responsible for the messages we send, but we are not necessarily responsible for how the message is received, particularly given how many ways and reasons there are for a message to be misconstrued. But in being responsible for the messages we send, we can’t turn a blind eye to the likely perceptions of others. And certainly, our words are not the only vehicle by which we send messages. We are responsible for all of the messages we send.

Are you skewing the messages you send verbally with behavior that says the opposite? Do your words say one thing while your actions say another?

Try stepping outside your own skin and seeing yourself through the eyes of others. Is the message you send the message you intend?

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6 Responses to “Is the Message You Send the Message You Intend?”

  1. Djuanna
    October 15th, 2009 2:39 pm

    This was meant for me today, as I have been having communication difficulties this past week with some friends. Thanks for being so on target as usual.

  2. Suzanne Bird-Harris
    October 15th, 2009 3:00 pm

    You're welcome! (I write to remind myself… LOL)

  3. Twitter Vacation
    October 22nd, 2009 10:38 pm

    Such great food for thought here. I stumbled on this post not 10 minutes after having a frustrating conversation where I just couldn't get my point across. It's important for me to remember that it's my responsibility to make sure I am understandable, not theirs to understand. Thanks!

  4. Pet
    November 13th, 2009 8:31 am

    I could write 1500 words on the ups and downs of my relationship with the wonderful Jen that would only cover this WEEK

  5. Clayton Shumway
    November 13th, 2009 10:44 pm

    Great advice, sometimes I wish I could watch a recording of my interactions…just to see how many times I sounds like a complete idiot! I'm sure it would be eye opeining…

  6. SuzanneBHarris
    November 14th, 2009 12:51 am

    Clayton – I'm in the same boat! I'm sure it WOULD be an eye-opening experience! Thanks for stopping by!

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