Even the best communicators can sometimes stumble. Lifehacker recently posted an article that does a great job of breaking down destructive communication habits. The highlight of the article is the comparison list of “caring communication habits” versus “destructive communication habits” from the William Glasser Institute:
Seven Caring (Approachable) Habits
- Supporting
- Encouraging
- Listening
- Accepting
- Trusting
- Respecting
- Negotiating Differences
Seven Destructive (Unapproachable) Habits
- Criticizing
- Blaming
- Complaining
- Nagging
- Threatening
- Punishing
- Bribing, Rewarding to Control
The destructive habits are also unapproachable habits. They create distance and misunderstanding (instead of being welcoming and creating trust). The caring habits, on the other hand, are approachable. Great tips there for communicating in a welcoming and understanding way. Read the whole article, it’s great.
