Men’s Empowerment Network Podcast

Season 1 Ep. 12

Making Yourself Heard - Effective Communication Part 1

Ever leave a conversation and feel like you just weren’t being heard? Ever feel like you constantly get railroaded or stepped on when speaking with someone? Maybe you’re the opposite and feel the need to raise your voice or push your way through a conversation.

I have never been a great communicator. My go-to style has been to push my thoughts and feelings down to allow for others to make their point and then just casually nod my head and smile in agreement regardless of whether I agreed or not and regardless of how I felt about the conversation.

Slowly, as I developed more and more confidence this began to change. Over the past few years, on this journey of self-exploration, discovery, and growth I have transitioned into a stronger communicator and ensure I am being effective and heard. This can also be attributed to understanding different communication styles.

Understanding different communication styles is like having a secret code that unlocks effective chit-chat with anyone. People generally display one of the following styles:

Aggressive: These folks often interrupt, talk over others, and disregard their feelings. They tend to express themselves forcefully or even hostilely. Picture a bulldozer, pushing through obstacles without considering others.

Passive: They avoid expressing their thoughts or needs, allowing others to make decisions for them. They're like doormats, suppressing their emotions and letting others walk all over them.

Passive-Aggressive: These individuals express negative feelings or thoughts indirectly or subtly, often through sarcasm or hinting. It's like a ticking time bomb disguised as politeness or concern.

Assertive: This style involves expressing oneself directly, honestly, and respectfully. They actively listen, empathize, and are willing to negotiate and compromise. Think of a sturdy bridge that allows for a smooth flow of communication.

Podcast Timeline:

00:00 - Introduction

00:23 - Welcome

01:57 - Stories of Not Being Heard

07:14 - Three Main Communication Styles

12:06 - Where do Communication Styles Come From?

18:56 - Importance of Learning Other Communication Styles

28:39 - Transitioning into an Assertive Communication Style

Podcast: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/6g3ESdC9SBriTYQbI7rLKL?si=5bf1caff04a64e97⁠Email: ⁠joshua@mensempowermentnetwork.com⁠TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@mensempowermentnetwork?_t=8i516Dz6Suh&_r=1⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mensempowermentnetwork/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@mensempowermentnetwork⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mensempowermentnetwork.com⁠

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