Communication is arguably the most important part of every relationship in our lives. But how much do we really know about it? Notoriously, teenagers are some of the worst communicators. Yet it’s really important for relationship development and expression with others.
So how do we communicate?
Speak up for the things you need and want for your relationships by setting boundaries and expectations. This can also be beneficial to education. When we don’t understand something, we need to ask for clarification in order to move forward. If there is an issue that needs to be addressed, be the one to speak up. Sometimes it is difficult to acknowledge issues with people in our lives that have authority over us, but it is just as vital to voice concerns to an authority figure as it is between a peer.
Sometimes it is easier to leave things unsaid than to recognize a problem between friends. However, this can harbor animosity and negativity between two people that can be easily solved with a conversation. It’s easier said than done, and there is a kind of bravery that is required to open up about one’s feelings, but the only way to do it is to just rip the bandaid off, especially in romantic relationships.
Even without words, we can communicate with our friends to let them know we see them. If you notice that someone is sad or uncomfortable but you don’t know what to say, sometimes bringing their attention to something else like a funny video or silly picture could let them know that you recognize their feelings without acknowledging it with words. Our actions can speak far louder than words.
Speaking of actions… Here are some other things we can do to communicate to the people we love that we love them:
A smile when you see them
This costs nothing and makes everyone feel good. A smile and (might be asking for too much here…) a wave would just make them, and anyone, feel happy to see you.
Buying them their favorite candy bar
When gestures like this are done unannounced, they mean the most. In the cafeteria, candy bars only cost about $1, and they’re so easy to get. Especially when you can remember what their favorite candy bar is, it’ll help your friends feel seen, heard, and wanted.
Helping them with their homework
Sometimes things in our lives can get very stressful and it can be hard to keep up on school work when there’s a lot going on. By reaching out and offering that helping hand, you can make your friends’ lives that much easier by keeping them up to date on something that may have seemed impossible.
A check-in conversation
Another factor that is extremely helpful during stressful moments is another friend noticing, and asking them how everything is going. This can even be useful to your friends if you don’t think anything is going on. A lot of people yearn to be seen even if it isn’t obvious that they’re hurting.
Everyday we are going to make mistakes with our relationships and people around us. But the most important thing is to acknowledge it with words and make up for it with actions. Communicating is one of the most important aspects of life. It can help with careers, love, and learning.
