Everyone uses frames of reference depending on their personal experiences, belief systems, values, social and cultural backgrounds. Everyone filters information through their own well-established patterns – mostly unconsciously.

The truth of one isn’t necessarily the truth of the other. Communication, therefore, is highly dynamic and complex and the risk of it being disrupted colossal. Failed communication can lead to surprise, irritation and development, but also to hard feelings, pain and even conflict and violence.

Learn how to identify the mostly “unconscious gap” between what is assumedly said and what is actually said or meant.

Conflicts are multifaceted: There is, of course, the supposedly obvious: the messages and actions of people or groups involved. But, simultaneously, there is a “communication behind the communication”, a message behind the message – often unintended and brought in from all involved sides. What emotions, needs, interests or power relations are behind the obvious? What are the true drivers and motivations behind peoples´ words and actions?

Developing skills of diagnosing and dealing with failed communication and conflicts in a constructive way will lead to greater understanding, (personal /organizational) growth, higher efficiency, innovation, advances, harmony and an overall higher level of well-being and happiness.

Being able to connect is fundamental to all human relations. A thriving team needs team members who care for it. A fulfilling partnership needs partners who want to make it work. Solving a conflict can only work if everyone involved has an interest in actually solving it. What connects us rather than divides us? What do we have in common? What do we share?

There is no true successful communication without connection and compassion: A good teacher cares for his/her students, a good boss cares for his/her employees, a good coach cares for his/her clients.

Explore how to find, feel and embrace common ground to heal existing cracks and to move on. Finding common ground makes relations and teams stronger and more impactful.

The better you understand yourself the better communicator you can possibly be! No matter if you have a new role in your job, a challenging time with your team or are in conflict with your partner, colleague or boss. There is a simple truth: You know yourself better, you communicate more successfully.

What does that mean? It means becoming aware of your own triggers, inner conflicts, interests, strengths, coping strategies, character traits, values and needs.

The higher the skill to look inside and to observe, recognize and cope with yourself, the more peace, contentment and mental health will be experienced. Learn methods, perspectives and techniques to profoundly and compassionately look inside.

Sometimes communication fails. With the proper skill set, you can say what you actually mean and make sure that the other understands you the way you want to be understood. Learn how to express negative emotions like anger, frustration or sadness in a way the other comprehends. Learn the importance of also expressing positive emotions. Learn how to express needs and ask for what you actually want. Learning this is a real eye-opener and will literally change your life for the better.

Cognitive understanding of what is said is not enough. Active listening grasps information not only on a cognitive level but goes beyond that. It creates connection and compassion, shows appreciation and establishes a space in which communication can be successful. Learn and practice how to listen with your words, your voice and your body.

Learn the art of asking questions to really understand your vis-á-vis and you will be surprised by the outcome. Learn how to show compassion and and to step into the other persons shoes. Your level of understanding will increase while totally staying authentic.