Just a few minutes ago, I was cruising down Main Street, anxious to get around a slower moving vehicle to my destination. A driver beside me seemed to read my need and backed down his speed, allowing me to move in front of him to pass the slow poke.
I was grateful. Actually, I was amazed and grateful! So, I lifted my right hand to wave "thank you", but I'm not sure I communicated my intent. You see, I was holding my money clip in my hand, so in an effort to not drop it as I waved, I maintained a firm grip. Then, in a split second I realized that every finger stayed on my clip - except my middle finger. "No! That's not what I meant! I'm not flipping you off!" I thought. I scrambled to get another digit in the air and realized I had gestured the "peace" sign. Again, not exactly what I intended, but better.
Communication is challenging. It requires focus. Intentionality.
And like it or not, much of our conversation is on the fly. It's in the hallway. It's in a quick email. It's an off-the-cuff response.
Focus. Think about what you want the person to hear. Think about whether you're building up or tearing down. And empty your hands if you're gesturing endearing, grateful signals. It'll help.
Fli
