Communicating With Others

When it comes to my life, I feel as though I wear many "hats" in terms of who I am with, I may have to change to a different hat. The reason for this is simply because some hats tend to stand out in certain situations so it is important to be in the correct context for the situation. At work with my students and colleagues, I have a teacher hat that is more patient and mindful of the communication taking place. At home, I have my mom hat that is a little less patient but very honest and caring with my son as well as my husband because this is a safe place for us all to relax. On the phone with my siblings, I have my sister hat that is the punk kid that through the insults and jokes around but also is supportive of each of them as I know each on is of me. These are just a few examples of my daily life and the many hats I often exchange.

Thinking of the habits of who we are and how we communicate, it is important to be aware of these how each of these can be a factor in how a person behaves in certain situations or around particular people. Vuckovic (2008) defines habits as "an established custom, frequently dominates behavior, often unconsciously" (p. 54). If a person is able to reflect and understand his or her habits, it will offer an insight to where some habits are appropriate and where they may not be as welcomed.

Emotions are always a component to all the things we do in life. We have certain passions and certain disdains. Being aware of how these influence and are a part of certain groups is a way for someone to communicate more effectively. Vuckovic (2008) explains how "emotions, once invoked, moderate the nature of the communication situation" (p. 55). As there are some instances where my emotions have to be more controlled, such as when i am at work, it is important that I use those to fuel the passion of what I am doing but also ensure that I am not crossing a boundary. Having a self-awareness of emotions offers the opportunity to be a better communicator.

As my son attended a weekly social group for teen with autism, it was a great discussion for our car ride home because he learned of nonverbal communication this week. Knowing how to utilize this form of communication in varying situations can offer someone the opportunity to be more effective and intentional. It is important to behave appropriately in each situation. While often with my family I am able to be more animated but at work, I have to maintain better composure and so knowing how to control my nonverbal communication is important.

Reference:

Vuckovic, A. (2008). Inter-cultural communication: A foundation of communicative
action. Multicultural Education and Technology Journal, 2(1), 47–59.