In keeping with the barely-there theme of pets, let's explore another facet of relationships - Communication.
Some might argue that relationships with pets and relationships with humans aren't the same because humans can communicate with each other.
They speak the same language.
Do they, though??
More often than not - not really.
Sure, the people we have relationships with will, by and large, speak the same language in terms of words and sentence structure. But in the sense of definition and meaning, many humans speak completely different languages and don't even know it.
Why?
Because we all think differently. And I mean everyone - even twins (of which I am living proof)!
As life-long residents of our own minds and bodies, we become so accustomed to our way of thinking, doing, behaving that when we encounter anything 'other' it is immediately flagged. And if you are anything like me, it is often flagged with outrage, disbelief, and/or Judgement.
As life-long residents of our own minds and bodies, we become so accustomed to our way of thinking, doing, behaving that when we encounter anything 'other' it is immediately flagged. And if you are anything like me, it is often flagged with outrage, disbelief, and/or Judgement.
'Why would So-and-so think that was ok?! That behavior is completely unacceptable!'
Perhaps the above thought passes through one's mind during an interaction with another person.
Conflict ensues.
Will a remedy be found to smooth things over??
That depends . . .
On what?
On what?
On one's level of self-awareness.
Anytime we have a reaction to something, it indicates that things are either in or out of alignment with our values and beliefs.
For instance:
Do you get irritated when others leave a(n originally) closed door open behind them or don't pick up after themselves, ever?
This could be an indication that you hold the belief:
'things should be left the same or better than you found them' and to not do so is 'inconsiderate and rude' [to give a completely made-up example that has no meaning in my life whatsoever . . .]
'things should be left the same or better than you found them' and to not do so is 'inconsiderate and rude' [to give a completely made-up example that has no meaning in my life whatsoever . . .]
Self-awareness allows us to identify such beliefs and discern the judgements we apply when unfollowed by others. This is the first step.
The second step of self-awareness is to assess our newly identified beliefs.
Sure, they were formed for a reason and at some point in time they were beneficial for us - but are they still helpful in the present?
Sure, they were formed for a reason and at some point in time they were beneficial for us - but are they still helpful in the present?
In many cases - at least in my own experience - newly identified beliefs don't really help me much. The majority were created at a much younger age and served an important purpose. Yet, with the passing of time comes new needs and new beliefs to reflect the present day person. Thus, awareness of our beliefs - current and old - is the key to better communication.
When we know what thoughts we are actually working with (and under the direction of) we can then communicate more effectively with others - and, in time, become an example of model communication.
