Philosophy Discussion Forums

This excerpt emphasizes the importance of clear and direct communication, highlighting how unnecessary complexity often hinders effective interaction.

By illustrating scenarios of straightforward versus convoluted communication, the author underscores the power and efficiency of assertiveness in achieving goals.

The author eloquently demonstrates how simplicity in communication not only enhances effectiveness but also fosters a sense of grace and ease in navigating interpersonal interactions.

Thank you for this insightful and thorough explanation of the power of direct, assertive communication. You've eloquently addressed a question I had been pondering - why people often fail to get what they want despite their best efforts.

Your examples perfectly illustrate how being concise and straightforward is the most effective approach, even if it may seem counterintuitive to some. Many people believe that you have to beat around the bush or use elaborate language to get what you want, but as you've pointed out, this often backfires. Why do you think this misconception is so widespread?

I greatly appreciate you taking the time to share your wisdom on this important topic.

Swimmingly,

You have completely hot the point. One weird believe I have is that when you say alot, people lose confidence in your words and saying little but straight to the point makes people believe that they know what you want and what your saying has more value

I agree with you, Scott. To make your opinions clear to the other person you are communicating with, it is very much essential that you first have a clear approach to what you are trying to say in your head first. Compose your thoughts first, then speak confidently, clearly and in a polite manner. Every being deserves to be respected. If someone is communicating aggressively then it's their fault that they can't control their anger. They aren't master of the emotions and words that come out of their mouth. Present your views in a clear, confident way so that people take your words and views seriously.

I agree that making a mountain out of a molehill is unnecessary. I have someone in my family who is a professional at it. I like to sit back, laugh, and enjoy her 'dog chasing its tail' activity as the mountain eventually crumbles down around her.

This post hits the nail on the head. We all get stuck talking around the issue instead of clearly stating our needs. The customer service examples perfectly illustrate how direct communication saves everyone time and frustration.

Being assertive doesn't mean being rude, it's about clear and confident communication.

By avoiding unnecessary details and getting to the point, we can achieve our goals with more ease and grace. It might seem simple, but it's a powerful skill!

I agree that clear, succinct communication is the best way to address a problem or negotiation. I don't enjoy the time wasters, especially when I'm behind them in a queue.

Thank you for sharing.

Wow. This is actually true. Being direct helps people in a lot of ways to save time and other things. Time is a commodity we can't afford.

I find myself leaning more towards passive or passive-aggressive communication when interacting with my students, and I've found it doesn't benefit me or them. When being too passive, I get stressed by creating a classroom environment where my needs aren't being met and I don't feel respected, even if the issue is that I didn't correctly communicate these needs and clarify my expectations. I recently tried to correct a student's behavior with a passive-aggressive comment, stating "Maybe that isn't a good seat choice for you today" when they were being disruptive, and it led to confusion because they felt I was asking them to demonstrate they can behave in that seat and that I was giving them another chance. What I meant, and should have said, was that they needed to move to another seat because they were causing disruptions. I thought I was sparing them embarrassment by making the suggestion rather than chastising them in front of peers, but it dragged out the interaction unnecessarily and didn't directly state what I was expecting.

Marissa Maniaci wrote: ↑May 6th, 2024, 8:57 pm When being too passive, I get stressed by creating [an environment] where my needs aren't being met and I don't feel respected, even if the issue is that I didn't correctly communicate these needs and clarify my expectations.

Exactly!

ASSERTIVENESS


It is good to be direct in negotiations. It is also good to be straightforward in request. These are steps that make business transactions easier. Following this path makes business more efficient and saves lots of time. The above scenarios were good examples.


Thank you.

This is beautifully explained.

In short, keep it simple.

Negotiation & Productive Communication: Less is more—the power of direct, simple assertiveness. Say less! It is valuable to negotiate productively as I am assertive in all that. I put my mouth on. When you ask directly and put your point across you will be answered directly and it minimizes the misunderstanding. I am in support of Less is more in communication.