QUOTE OF THE DAY
“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.”
-George Bernard Shaw
IDEA OF THE DAY
The summer weather in Seattle has really come out to shine—and with it, I’ve found myself more inspired to take long walks, reflect deeply, and engage in meaningful conversations with the people around me.
A few days ago, I was on one of those walks with my boyfriend, Chad. I wanted to bring up something that had been on my mind, but I hesitated, afraid I might hurt his feelings. So…I did what I thought I’d want someone to do for me: I gently sugarcoated the request.
It backfired.
Chad interrupted me mid-sentence, clearly frustrated, and asked that I just get to the point. I paused, gathered my thoughts and courage, and tried again—this time, more directly. He exhaled and said, “Thank you. Now I can hear the rest of what you have to say.”
It was a powerful moment for both of us. I realized that Chad values direct, no-fluff communication, whereas I prefer a soft lead-in that helps me feel safe and receptive when receiving feedback or requests. What I think is a kind and clear way to express something may not land the same way for someone else. It’s a constant practice—learning how to communicate, how to ask, how to share—and doing our best not to take each other’s responses too personally along the way.
If you find yourself navigating a similar moment with someone you love, try asking them this simple question: How do you like to receive feedback or requests? Sometimes, understanding each other’s communication preferences is the most loving thing we can do. Speak honestly, stay curious, and be willing to keep learning—it makes all the difference and helps us grow and deepen relationships along the way.
QUESTION OF THE DAY
How can I be more curious about the other person’s communication preferences instead of defaulting to my own?