Recently I began a Newby Management podcast called “Refining Faith.” You can access it through Spotify (Apple Podcast and others coming soon) or in a link from our Website homepage under “Refining Faith Podcast.” In episode 2 we are talking through the New Testament book of James chapter one. In this chapter we read these incredibly practical words.
James 1:19
“My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”
Who couldn’t benefit from these powerful words? When James states “Everyone” I think he means all people. That’s you and me. Have you ever said something and immediately regretted it? I think most of us can relate.
In our conversations throughout the day, we may run into conflict with coworkers, customers, neighbors, and even spouses. When that happens, I encourage you to communicate not just talk. You might think, “My wife and I talk all the time.” But do you communicate all the time? See, talking does not equal communication. For communication to happen there has to be speaking, listening, and understanding.
One key component in communication is listening. Maybe THE key component in communication is listening. When the other person is talking do not do what comes natural for many of us. That is pretend to listen but ignore what is being said and just load up on what you’re going to say next. As you can imagine, when both parties do this there is no listening and certainly no understanding.
To help with understanding throughout your conversation at work, pause and say something like, “Okay, what I hear you saying is that it frustrates you when I don’t check with you before going on to the next step in our project.” If in your marriage, you could say, “I think I see what you mean. I anger you when I don’t offer to help more around the house. It makes you feel like I take you for granted.”
Clear communication is vital to any healthy relationship, professional or personal. Take what James says to heart, remember . . . “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” Actually, when we are quick to listen and slow to speak it will result in us in being slow to become angry.
Let’s help each other in becoming better communicators.
Corporate Chaplain
Mike Bynum
chaplain@newbymanagement.com
941-297-9467