Newspeak

With the advancement of technology speeding along and education as it was being left behind, I wonder if reading books is becoming redundant. If so, then spelling must suffer because the English language has so many similar sounding words that written communication could be the victim.

Imagine having to write the words to a much loved remembered song, and this could be an example. You may recognise a long time passed favourite, “You Made Me Love You” and if you do, then the sound of the words could result in someone spelling the lyrics thus…

Ewe maid mealof ewe,

Eye didn’t one to do wit

Eye didn’t one two do it

Ewe maid meal of ewe

And awl the thyme ewe new it

And awl the thyme ewe new it.

Ewe maid me happy

Sum times ewe maid me glad

Butt their were times deer

Yew maid me feel sew sad.

Texting is so common these days that understanding a badly spelled message could be a challenge. So, where is all this going you may well ask? It’s about communication and speaking or writing in language that your listener understands. Do you do it well?

Do you consult a dictionary, or have a thesaurus close at hand? These were common on most bookshelves in times gone by, and I was certainly very glad of that. It seems that the accepted need for informative checklists has been abandoned and misunderstanding, if not chaos, could be the result.

It doesn’t help that newspapers are forever playing with words in order to attract attention, yet apparently not realising that misspelling is only relevant for people with a good understanding of the English language.in the first place.

All the above is to do with the written word of course, and speaking is quite different to writing. Knowing what your intention is in successfully communicating with others, one to one or one to many, then preparing what it is that might be of interest is important if mutual understanding is your aim.

1. Having something to say is the first step as long as the words are spoken in such a way that the listener/s can understand and have their curiosity aroused.
2. Deliver your information always for your listener/s. Don’t fall into the trap of loving the sound of your own voice and merely speaking for the sake of it.
3. Learn to listen with your eyes as you frame your attempt at cooperation via verbal communication. Understand the importance of hearing how and what you are saying in order to effectively get your message across. That is of course if you have a message of interest, if not beneficial to your partners in conversation.
4. Prepare what it is you would like to say before allowing words to simply tumble out of your mouth.
5. By being vigilant on a daily basis that what it is you would like to say, given that the aim is for mutual understanding if not benefit, you will improve your desired attempt to become a better communicator.

In closing, let me say that it might it be worth getting a coach to assist you along the path of reciprocal understanding?

Kind regards,

John