Mental and Emotional Health: Understanding and Developing Identity

Communication

Since communication with others is a component of developing a positive identity and strong self-esteem, communication is the next life-skill you will explore.

The ability to communicate with others effectively is one of young male and female student talking the best life skills a person can develop. When you communicate your thoughts and feelings effectively, you are better equipped for success in school, work, and your relationships.   It takes more than being able to talk to communicate.  You have to be able to listen and understand others, to “read” and interpret body language, and to know the best ways to get your points across.

Communication requires three components:

  1. A sender
  2. A receiver
  3. A message

Also there are two forms of communication:

  • Verbal Communication: the actual words spoken
  • Non-verbal Communication: the conscious and subconscious cues sent such as facial expressions.

There is one component to communication that is just as important as the message. Have you said something to someone and they didn't understand what you were trying to say or they completely misuderstood you?

Listening is just as critical as the "words" in the message. Listening skills help you interpret the message as the sender intended it. Listening – This is just as critical as the words or message. Your listener may hear something completely different than what was said. The last is non-verbal communication. This includes all the information sent, whether consciously or subconsciously, without actually using any words. Facial expressions are an example of non-verbal communication.