For the last several days, my daughter has been attending an overnight camp. The only communication we have with her is when she sends a letter. We’ve received one letter so far. The only way we can get a glimpse into what she’s doing is through the daily pictures that are posted by the camp—if she’s in one of the posted photos. I miss communicating with her on a daily basis.

Relationships without consistent and effective communication are difficult to manage, and usually lead to a breakdown. Communication is necessary for any relationship to thrive. Work relationships benefit from consistent, open and honest communication. Marriages thrive when effective communication is present. Friendships blossom when people regularly talk and listen to each other.

Communication is a skill and can be developed and strengthened.

Are you a good listener?

Do you communicate your thoughts and ideas?

Can you articulate your values and beliefs?

Do people know where you stand?

Are you often misunderstood?

Take a moment and evaluate how well you communicate which is evidenced in your relationships with others. Just as I can’t wait to get a letter from my daughter so I can learn more about her and her experiences, it’s the same way in your relationships. If you invest the time in communicating well, your relationships will be healthy with few breakdowns in communication.

~Coletta Jones Patterson

*Coletta is an author, business executive, life/business coach and speaker who is passionate about helping others go beyond stuck. Her latest book, “Beyond Stuck: Creating the Life You Want” is available on Amazon.com