Active communication is the key to effective relationships and teams.  Without it, unnecessary anxiety and misunderstanding breed disruption. 

Open and consistent sharing of thoughts, feelings and intention builds strong relationships.  It is critical that supervisors and team leaders inform their team members of their vision and goals for the group.  This applies in a work setting and within the family.  Nowadays families often have their own mission statement.  Friends need to be open about their feelings so that the relationship is mutually beneficial for both.  Sharing this information once or twice is not sufficient.  It needs to be regularly discussed so that everyone is working toward the same goal.

When team members don’t know what is expected of them, they lack the confidence to contribute their best to the mission.  A closer bond forms when people understand each other.  When one party is unsure where they stand in the relationship, unrest and anxiety begin to erode trust and respect.

Whether you are supervising a workgroup, leading a family, or desire more meaningful friendships, keep the lines of communication flowing.  This will help you to live! . . . your life to the fullest.