Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible. -Dalai Lama
COMMUNICATION
I read a communication over the weekend which included the words, “I won’t do graphics/images. You’re on your own for that one.” Ouch.
With raised eyebrows, the military spouse I am responded internally, “Okayyy, I hear that Lima Charlie.” [Military speak for Loud and Clear].
While I 100% support setting boundaries and clear communication, digging deeper into the “no” there, I found at least three (3) missed opportunities:
- To get off on the right foot with the recipient, or as dictionary.com defines it: make a good start at something, especially a task or relationship.
- To collaborate with a strategic partner who does do graphics/images.
- To make a trusted referral to boost a colleague.
MISCOMMUNICATION
Even for the well-meaning, email has no inflection or body language so being mindful of perceived tone is paramount. >>>
Tone: A great way to think of tone is as the voice of the written word, expressing emotion, character, volume, intonation, and the overall attitude of the message. You could say the difference between the two is that voice is what you say, your tone in email is how you say it. [flowrite.com]
TALK TO THE HAND
We tend to live in reactive mode evidenced by the impersonal and sometimes rude conversations on social media. My conflict resolution coach has stated people don’t do conflict well because we don’t have uncomfortable conversations. Dialogue, whether written or spoken, can always come from a place of kindness.
“If you propose to speak, always ask yourself, is it true, is it necessary, is it kind?”
What strategies do you utilize to practice kindness?
Read more about Paper Chaser Biz Kindness Rock project here.
