In the hustle and bustle of our professional lives, communication often takes a backseat. We’ve all been there – those moments when we feel stressed, overwhelmed, and at wit’s end at work. During these times, communication skills can go pear-shaped very quickly. We can end up potentially damaging our relationships with colleagues and affecting both our productivity and that of our team too. This is where mindful communication at work comes into play.

What is Mindful communication at work?

Mindful communication is a practice that helps professionals become more aware of how they communicate and the profound impact it has on workplace relationships. (Yes, please do send this article over to your boss. LOL)

Picture this:

You’re in a high-pressure situation at work, and your patience is running thin. Feeling frustrated, it’s easy to snap at a colleague, avoid interactions with your boss, or disengage during meetings. But let’s be honest, no one benefits from this negative energy.

Alternatively, when we practice mindful communication, we shift our focus to the other person, listening attentively and responding with kindness. We become more receptive to others’ ideas, more humble in sharing our thoughts, and genuinely invested in both the conversation and the relationship.

As a professional who predominantly operates from this mindful space, you’ll witness remarkable changes in your workplace dynamics like:

1. Genuine Warmth: Colleagues will engage openly when they sense your empathy and understanding.
2. Honest Engagement: People will share with you more honestly because they feel heard and respected.
3. Open Exchange: Team members will be more open to sharing ideas, suggestions, and feedback.
4. Enhanced Efficiency: With your support and respect, colleagues will become more efficient, knowing they have your trust.

We can explore mindful communication further by breaking it down into the three communication “traffic lights.” Author of “The Five Keys to Mindful Communication,” Susan Gillis Chapman recommends thinking of the way we communicate using these simple lights to guide our interactions.

Red light = STOP

This is the danger zone of communication – you’re mindlessly engaging and likely to damage relationships. When you’re in the red:

– You’re trapped in the “me/I” mindset, only thinking about your perspective and needs.

– You’ve disconnected from the other person, neglecting their needs, thoughts, and desires.

– You may utter words or take actions that break trust and erode respect.

In this zone, it’s crucial to step away, slow down, and reevaluate before returning to the conversation. Recognize that your immediate reactions may be detrimental, and it’s essential to regain perspective to keep the relationship in tact.

Amber light = SLOW

The amber zone signifies caution. You’re treading on thin ice and need to handle the conversation delicately. Here’s what happens in the amber zone:

– You’re transitioning into the “me/I” space, losing sight of the bigger picture and the other person’s needs.

– Emotions like hurt, frustration, or triggers might be clouding your judgment, making it necessary to address these feelings first.

– Continuing down this path can make you appear insensitive, leaving others feeling uncared for and disrespected.

When you find yourself in the amber zone, dial up your curiosity. Explore the other person’s perspective and create space to manage your emotions. This step will prevent unintended harm and ensure a more constructive conversation.

Green light = GO

The green zone represents mindful communication at its finest. Here’s what characterises the green zone:

– Both parties are in the “we/us” space, considering each other’s perspectives, needs, and desires.

– Active listening, openness to ideas and opinions, and a genuine search for win-win solutions are at the forefront.

– Others will sense your care and respect, making them more receptive to your suggestions.

In the green zone, recognize that you’re doing an excellent job. Your communication is clear, kind, and concise, contributing positively to the conversation and the relationship.

The journey towards mindfully communicating at work starts within.

If you’ve realised that you often find yourself in the amber or red zones, it might be time for some professional development. Clients I’ve worked with learn to manage their headspace first and then extend that practice to managing relationships within their workplace.

Remember, mindful communication is not a destination but a journey. It takes practice and patience to consistently operate in the green zone. However, the rewards are substantial – improved relationships, enhanced teamwork, and increased productivity.

As you communicate more mindfully more often, you’ll not only bring out the best in others but also create a great work environment for yourself.