How To Embrace The Deepest Part Of Conversation — The Silence Between Words
Most people think of silence as something that needs to be quickly covered up otherwise it will lead to awkwardness. There is a reason we often refer to silence as “awkward silence”.
But what if silence is good for conversations? After all, silence is an important part of communication.
In fact, silence can be a very effective communication tool. When we communicate, we are expressing ourselves — verbally and non-verbally. Sometimes, silence does a better job at conveying a message than words can.
Words only express seven percent of the messages we want to convey. Nonverbal communication (expressions, gestures, tone, volume, etc.) therefore expresses 93 percent of the message.
If this is the case, then we can see how silence can contribute to a conversation, too.
How To Be Comfortable with Silence in a Conversation
Silence has a purpose. It isn’t just a placeholder, waiting for someone to interrupt. If you are eagerly waiting for a lull so you can get the last word in, you miss the purpose of a conversation — to exchange ideas.
Instead of division, we should work toward unity. It’s no wonder that “communication” is the top problem cited by partners coming to couples counseling.
How do you cope with silence in conversations?
Try to like silence, or at least, not be bothered by it.
Silence can indicate whether the communication and the relationship are healthy or not healthy. If you know the other person doesn’t mind silence, maybe even likes it, then don’t let it bother you.