In the reading of this chapter, new terms learned are: abstraction ladder, buzz word, heuristic function, metamessage, relative language, representational function, and the like. These could be introduced and explained as the chapter was taking up the nature of language and communication.
Indeed, the terms in question, corresponding as they did to particular linguistic theories or concepts, such as "linguistic determinism," "linguistic relativity," " would probably have been somewhat less transparent to begin with. But the context provided in the chapter should make the meaning of such terms clearer as time goes on.
From this vocabulary exercise, I have learned that one should keep learning and be actively involved with issues that relate to language. This would entail a move towards reading a bit more, understanding linguistic theories and their application in real-life situations, and seeking an opportunity to apply vocabulary and language skills in authentic settings. Among these tips to "Improving Verbal Communication," the one I liked best is "Be Mindful of Nonverbal Communication." Basically, this idea is that a message is not only the text of a message but in how the message is said body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions. Verbal communication is made successful with the incorporation of nonverbal cues; the nonverbal cues would support and be in line with the verbal messages that are being communicated. So, this way, it would be easy for me to put across my thoughts and ideas, which makes communication effective.
Today, I have been doing an exercise to help with better mindfulness in written communication. The written material I read was about how managing emotions and being mindful leads to more effective written communication. This applies to many college students for the mere reason that often, I am in a hurry and write a text or even an e-mail without thinking about my words. What words can I use to be effective in getting across what I'm trying to say in a decent way? It's a moment in which I can consider the tone and intention of my voice.
I decided to do it for the whole day: to be more intentional in written communication. Before sending any text or email, I took a minute-long pause to determine what it was that I wanted to say. What words can I use to be effective in getting across what I'm trying to say in a decent way? It's a moment in which I can consider the tone and intention of my voice.
After writing every single message, I would take another couple of minutes just to reread it. It was in my best interest to be as mindful as possible about how my words might be perceived by the person reading them. I could reflect on what I would think, had someone sent me a similar message and if my message lacked sufficient non-verbal context. Would the person at the receiving end take it on its face, or was there a possibility for miscommunication in tone or message delivery?
In some cases, however, the addition of an emoji or GIF to the text would be used to further convey my meaning and not cause any confusion. These visual representations enliven my messages, provide some color in context, boost affinity, and reduce misunderstanding.
Subsequently, such a mindfulness exercise truly impacts my written communication habits. I believe that, due to the pause to reflect, to think how my words might possibly affect another, I was able to communicate in a better and more empathic way. In future, I would apply such a mindful approach, not just in personal communications but also in a professional arena so that the connections are clear and meaningful.