I Thought I Was Good At It...

I came upon a concept recently that has really challenged me yet added to my quality of life - isn't that just the way it goes the hardest things we do make the most difference! Anyway, the concept is to Communicate Bravely. Even the words are beautiful.  I have to say most of us would say we are pretty good at communicating, but it is the BRAVELY part that may be the challenge. 

I don't think communicating bravely means saying all those nasty, hurtful things you always think. Instead, I think it challenges us to speak from our heart and not have fear about whether what WE say is valid or not.  Most of us don't communicate our true needs and desires and in doing so we devalue ourselves.

Instead of assuming others don't care or they don't get you, ask yourself whether you have really communicated with them about what you need. The reality is that communicating bravely allows others the opportunity to honor you and to meet you right where you are at - which is a great foundation for a healthy relationship. By the same token, when you use this technique you can encourage others to do the same so that you might have the chance to really honor them as well...what a refreshing way to relate to one another. No guessing. No misinterpretations or misunderstandings. No one feeling alone!

To communicate bravely doesn't mean to blame or be blamed, to demand or be demanded, to be selfish or selfess or to speak and not listen. It IS deeply rooted in your belief that you MATTER! That your goals and your dreams are valuable. You are meant to do great things and when you communicate that to others through brave actions and words, you will receive a leg-up and you will inspire the same in them!

Let the concept roll around in your head for a bit. Pick apart your belief about yourself and what you really communicate to others. Do you communicate your deepest needs and desires or just the ones you think others would consider acceptable? Do you settle or put yourself second...or third, or fourth? Are you pursuing all that you are meant to be or letting those things you need help with stop you? Now just start small...go past just communicating, be BRAVE and ask for what you need. Go after your dreams. Ultimately, you will be better in every relationship because you will feel fulfilled and valued. Communicate Bravely!  
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Remember…you are NOT alone!
Stacy Manning       .