The Most Powerful Parts of Communication

When most people think about communication, it’s about the words and phrases that are spoken in a conversation. However, another important part of communication is the role of body language and gut feelings. In fact, over 80% of what you say to others is through facial expressions alone. Amazingly, these unconscious parts of communication are the most powerful.

Your gut feeling or intuition tells you when something doesn’t match between what a person says and how they make you feel. This could be interpreted from the tone of voice, how a person is standing or sitting, or if the words don’t match the mood of the conversation. If your gut feeling tells you something is not right, it is like an alarm sounding off.

This is why you can’t always trust what another person says, but you can trust how you feel. On average, feelings are a stronger gauge for accuracy than words, so it is important to step back and listen to your feelings. This is not only important in conversation, but in any moment when you’re uncertain. Feelings are your inner guides and if you are willing to listen, they can reveal much more than words.

Here are a few more communication tips for “feeling” your way through conversations:

Think about what your body language says. Do you avoid eye contact or look people directly in the eye? What does this say about you?

The ways you communicate speaks volumes. Does what you say and the messages you’re sending out match up?

Try to speak in positives. Even though feelings matter, the words you use can create positive or negative impressions to other people.

You make choices based on your energy and mindset. Remember, if you want to experience more positive feelings, think positively—people will notice.

Above all, listen to your intuition during conversation and see what you can learn.