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Communication

Talk About It

January 3, 2019 by Anneli Riismaa PsyD


Most of the time when we are going through something difficult in our lives we typically keep it to ourselves. Why do we do this? Is it because we are embarrassed or afraid that we will be judged? Are we afraid to be seen as weak because we are feeling overwhelmed or can’t deal with the problem? Are we afraid to express our emotions openly because we were told as children that we should not let others see us cry? Whatever the reason is, we need to realize that we are human and that we are NOT alone in whatever it is that we are going through.

It is certainly understandable that we may not be able to talk with those that are closest to us, such as family members, partners, spouses, or friends, but there is always someone we can reach out to. If you can relate to this than I encourage you to think about people in your life that have impacted you in a positive way; people you can trust… See if there is someone you can reach out to that is willing to listen without judgement and maybe guide you through this difficult time. If there is absolutely no one, think of organizations that offer counseling, advising, employee assistance programs if need be. But most of all don’t keep it inside, because it isn’t healthy for you and it’s is probably causing other problems–emotional or physical. There is always a way out, sometimes we just need someone else to help us see it.

Filed Under: Communication

Communication

January 27, 2016 by Anneli Riismaa PsyD


In any relationship: commitment gives you the longevity of the relationship, but communication gives you the quality of it.

LISTENING – the single most important skill you will ever have. Practice reflective statements; listen to the affect and watch for non-verbal communication.

Communication with self: taking time with you on daily basis; thinking; reflecting; being honest with yourself. You can’t be there for others if you are not well. Do you know your early signs of emotional wearing out? Do you know what will “fix” you? Do you communicate that to your loved ones? How do you talk to yourself?

Communication with others: taking time to talk to family members regularly, especially to your spouse; establishing clarity and definitions of terms with others; do not practice mind reading; criticism, “silent treatments”, and contempt/sarcasm. These are the number one killers of relationships (including the one you have with self).

Alone time. Communication in prayer or meditation: daily prayer or meditation, and the improvement of it. This is your foundation and your key to the knowing of yourself.

Filed Under: Communication

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