Stay Awake: Portal Into a Generative Communication Mindset
Pay attention! Things are going on all around you that you don’t want to miss. We can’t possibly take in all the stimuli that bombard our senses every moment of every day. Still, we can become far more aware of information that illuminates our interactions with others—IF we try.
The twitch of an eye, tightening of muscles, a sense of hostility, or camaraderie “in the air” when we walk into a room are examples of information we might not notice unless we’re paying attention. Seeking verifiable information presented from a variety of perspectives about a situation we’re dealing with is yet another means of paying attention. Or noticing a pit in your stomach, or your overreaction to a comment. There are dozens of ways we can expand our awareness of what is going on in and around us IF we make an effort to pay attention!
Be Aware
The art of awareness is central to understanding what it means to communicate generatively. “Being aware” simply means consciously noticing visible and invisible information that helps us see a bigger picture of what is going on in a particular situation. At the same time, being aware means recognizing that whatever we think we see, know and understand about a situation is only a fraction of all the relevant information to know. Our human biological and psychological limitations help to explain why this is so. However, merely recognizing this fact is a good start toward actively seeking to expand our awareness.
Somewhere in the world
Someone is cold, be aware.
And while you’re feeling young
Someone is old, be aware.
And while your stomach’s full
Somewhere in this world
Someone is hungry.
When there is so much, should
anyone be hungry?
Somewhere in the world
People are weak, be aware.
And while you speak your mind
Others can’t speak, be aware.
And while your children sleep
Somewhere in this world
A child is homeless.
When there is so much, should any
child be homeless?
Oh no, not even one child.
Be aware.
Bacharach & David
Be Present
A key to staying awake is to be fully present. Being in the present moment —the here and now— means that we are mindful of what is happening right now. After all, the present is the space where our lives unfold. Being present means being free from the noise of internal dialogue and not being distracted by ruminating on the past or projecting into the future. Being able to summon this state of mind —and staying in it for even a short while— takes practice. The mind naturally wanders, but when we are able to be present, we can experience things more fully; setting aside our thoughts, our judgements, and just be, with open awareness.
The future is ours, and it is possible to create a better world—together—though generative communication!
For more information on creating healthy forms of communication in your life, contact Mary A. Ferdig, Ph.D. today.