Kind Communication

Daily Calm, the 10-minute meditation session everyday touches on some very interesting topics and sometimes the subject is so apt, it’s surprising. Today’s session was about Kind Communication.

Over the last few days, I have been noticing communication at the workplace, not just of my colleagues, but my interactions as well and how it is impacting the morale, mood, and productivity. Tools like Slack and Flock haven’t necessarily made communication any better. You write something without thinking twice and regret later.

Work pressure, deadlines, dependencies and delays make it difficult to remain calm and communicate in a positive or even appropriate manner. This results in harsh and pointed language to shouting matches, leaving the people involved hurt, angry, and dejected. This leads to loss of productivity and a weaker team.

I, too am guilty of this. So, today’s Daily Calm was right on point. Words have an impact and even if we have to have an unpleasant conversation, we should choose our words so as not to hurt or belittle the other person. We don’t know what he/she is going through. I have employed sarcasm when a colleague took a bit too long to get my point. Thinking back on it, I’m not proud of it.

So, I am going to strive for mindful, kind conversations and ask myself these questions

Is it true?
Is it necessary?
Is it kind?