The Ultimate Guide to Effective Communication Strategies
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Understanding Communication
Effective communication is not merely about speaking; it encompasses a range of factors, primarily body language, which accounts for a staggering 90%. Surprisingly, only 8% is attributed to spoken words, and a mere 2% to written text. This highlights the importance of non-verbal cues in conveying messages.
Did you know that speech and text are often used as instruments to align others with your mental perspective? To articulate thoughts, they must first be processed in your left hemisphere, which serves as the hub for verbal expression. Even left-handed individuals remain linked to their left hemisphere.
With this foundational knowledge, we can delve into the art of communicating effectively and authentically.
Speech and the Left Hemisphere's Influence
Most individuals have their speech center positioned in the left frontal lobe. A WADA test can verify this by sedating one hemisphere to determine which one governs speech. The left hemisphere operates under the assumptions taught by the right, akin to how an AI functions. It is motivated by dopamine, a neurotransmitter that drives various behaviors, including speaking, moving, and engaging in other daily activities.
Furthermore, the left hemisphere is characterized as dogmatic, narcissistic, and rational, often resistant to changing its viewpoint. This rigidity can be exacerbated by dopamine or glutamate when the left hemisphere becomes agitated, while the right hemisphere is calmed by GABA, preventing mental instability.
The brain relies on glucose, with approximately 50% of blood glucose utilized by its functions. Consequently, the brain prefers to conserve energy, compelling the left hemisphere to lean on established mental frameworks instead of activating the more energy-intensive right hemisphere.
Body Language: The Honest Communicator
The right hemisphere plays a crucial role as the subconscious and genuine aspect of our brain. It struggles to deceive, contrasting sharply with the left hemisphere, which is adept at self-deception. The left hemisphere often operates under the belief that its worldview is the only valid one.
Since the right hemisphere processes all incoming information first—whether through sight, hearing, or touch—it is inherently more honest. Brain scans reveal that the right hemisphere activates prior to the left, illustrating its efficiency. This area is vital for creativity, curiosity, and forming connections, manifesting in moments of insight or "Eureka" when the mind synthesizes information during dreams or relaxation.
Creativity thrives in the right hemisphere, which is why individuals struggle to be innovative under stress. Instead, people often rely on habitual responses, honed through repeated practice. A low level of neuroticism enhances access to the right hemisphere, especially in high-pressure scenarios.
Impulse control, essential for maintaining humanity and preventing psychopathy, is also centered in the right hemisphere. It governs emotional responses, fostering genuine empathy through mirror neurons, while the left hemisphere tends to mimic behaviors superficially.
Once the right hemisphere has processed information sufficiently, it relays this knowledge to the left hemisphere via the Corpus Callosum, updating the mental model of the world. Unlike the right, the left may reject new information, a trait commonly observed in narcissistic individuals.
Interruption and Communication Styles
When engaged in conversation, the left hemisphere's focus on speech often leads to difficulties in relaxation. Conversely, the right hemisphere allows for a more fluid, responsive dialogue. Individual personality traits, particularly extroversion, influence conversational dynamics. Those on the lower end of the extroversion scale may find it challenging to engage verbally, while those with higher extroversion levels are more inclined to dominate conversations.
My own experiences reflect this; as someone with a high extroversion score, I can speak extensively on topics like science. However, listening effectively requires conscious effort, particularly in professional settings where I have interacted with diverse individuals facing various challenges.
Four Steps to Enhance Communication
- Breathing: Exhale slowly, contracting your abdomen to push out air. Allow your body to naturally inhale. This technique not only calms you but also enhances your voice during presentations.
- Listening: Focus solely on understanding the other person's perspective. Set aside your viewpoints, as the conversation centers on their experiences and interpretations.
- Summarizing: After the speaker concludes, summarize their points and reflect on their emotions. This demonstrates genuine interest and fosters a connection, essential for building relationships.
- Responding: Begin formulating your response only after confirming your understanding of their message and feelings. If clarification is needed, ask questions until you grasp the nuances.
Recommended Reads for Deeper Insights
- The Master and His Emissary by Dr. Iain McGilchrist
- The Matter With Things by Dr. Iain McGilchrist
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