The Importance of Open Communication

We’ve heard it all before: be open; be honest; communicate. 

Have you ever stopped to think about why this is so important?  When it comes down to the depth of your personal relationships, open communication plays an important role.

With Your Children

Open communication with your children creates a constant dialogue between you – when they are babies, toddlers, teens, adolescents and adults.  It never stops.  A child who is open with you is one who trusts you, confides in you and isn’t afraid to talk to you.  It is this type of relationship that parents dream of.  You know your children’s whereabouts, you are aware of how they are feeling, and you have an opportunity to be there for them when they need you most.

A child raised in a closed communication environment can grow to become insecure, shy, embarrassed and secretive.  Open communication teaches children that it’s okay to be honest, it’s okay to be who you are, and it’s okay to express yourself.

With Your Spouse

Tell your spouse what’s on your mind.  Explain how you are feeling and why.  When something bothers you, talk about it.  Open lines of communication create a special bond between you.  It takes out the guesswork, the secrecy and the wondering.

Openness establishes a comfort level; a sense of security.  You know each other.  You trust each other.  You build respect for one another.  Embrace this.  When you have the special link that can only come from open communication, you bid farewell to the frustrations, the emotional buildups, the insecurities and the mistrust that can only lead to adversity in an intimate relationship.

With Your Friends

So you’re open with your children and your spouse, but what about your friends?  Friendly circles have a way of turning to gossip crowds and tight groups to two-faced battles.  It is sad but true.  Wouldn’t it be easier – and better – if everyone spoke openly to one another?  Why is it that friendships so often cause unnecessary drama within groups?  Try to break free of the mold and be open with your friends.  Tell the truth and be true to yourself. 

With a friend, spouse or child, being open creates deeper, more meaningful relationships.  When you are open, you encourage others to be open too.  Openness demonstrates confidence, sincerity and authenticity.  People are inspired by such characteristics.  They want to participate in your dialogue and when they do, the conversations and connections reach a more profound level. 

Experience the relationships in your life for all that they can be by starting first, with open communication.