Communication Communication can best be summarized as the transmission of a message from a sender to a receiver in an understandable manner. The importance of effective communication is immeasurable in the world of business and in personal life. The communication process is made up of four key components. Those components include encoding, medium of transmission, decoding, and feedback. There are also two other factors in the process, and those two factors are present in the form of the sender and the receiver. The communication process begins with the sender and ends with the receiver.
Forming relationships
Use of language (verbal communication) Verbal communication is the use of words to convey a message. Some forms of verbal communication are written and oral communication.
Use of non-verbal communication Nonverbal communication is the use of body language to convey a message. One main form of nonverbal communication is body language.
M aintaining relationships Healthy relationships have been shown to increase our happiness, improve health and reduce stress. Studies show that people with healthy relationships have more happiness and less stress. There are basic ways to make relationships healthy, even though each relationship is different.
1. Keep expectations realistic. No one can be everything we might want them to be. Healthy relationships mean accepting people as they are and not trying to change them. 2. Talk with each other. It can't be said enough: communication is essential to healthy relationships. 3. Be flexible. It is natural to feel uneasy about changes. Healthy relationships allow for change and growth. 4. Take care of yourself, too. Healthy relationships are mutual, with room for both people’s needs. 5. Be dependable. If you make plans with someone, follow through. If you take on a responsibility, complete it. Healthy relationships are trustworthy. 6. Fight fair. Most relationships have some conflict. It only means you disagree about something; it does not have to mean you don't like each other.
7. Be affirming. According to relationship researcher John Gottman, happy couples have a ratio of 5 positive interactions or feelings for every 1 negative interaction or feeling. Express warmth and affection! 8. Keep your life balanced. Other people help make our lives satisfying but they cannot meet every need. Find what interests you and become involved. Healthy relationships have room for outside activities. 9. It’s a process. It might look like everyone on campus is confident and connected, but most people share concerns about fitting in and getting along with others. It takes time to meet people and get to know them. Healthy relationships can be learned and practiced, and keep getting better. 10. Be yourself! It's much easier and more fun to be authentic than to pretend to be something or someone else. Healthy relationships are made of real people.