"التواصل: الشيء الذي نسيه البشر عندما اخترعنا الكلمات."

Words are supposed to help us understand each other better, but sometimes they get in the way. Think about it. Before we had words, we communicated through gestures, expressions, and tones. We had to really pay attention to each other. Now that we have words, we often assume that just saying something means we’ve successfully communicated, but that’s not always the case.

Imagine a couple arguing. One person says, "You never listen to me!" The other snaps back, "What do you mean I never listen? I heard you say you were unhappy!" Both are using words, but they’re not really communicating. The first person feels unheard, not because the other didn’t hear the words, but because the emotions and intentions behind the words weren’t understood. This isn't a new problem—it's been around for as long as we've had language.

Back in the early 1900s, there was a famous psychotherapist named Carl Jung who talked a lot about this kind of thing. He believed that a lot of our misunderstandings come from not truly connecting with the meaning behind the words we use. It’s like we’re speaking different languages, even when we're using the same words.

Here’s a real-life example: think about customer service. You call a company because something you bought isn’t working. The representative on the other end is reading from a script. They’re saying words, but you can tell they’re just going through the motions. You don’t feel heard or understood. Contrast that with a situation where the rep really listens and responds to your exact issue. Maybe they even share a personal story to make a connection. That’s real communication. It feels completely different, right?

So how can we apply this in our everyday lives? Start by really listening. And I mean really listening. Don’t just wait for your turn to speak. Pay attention to the other person’s body language, their tone of voice, and what they might be feeling. It’s not just about the words—they're just the tip of the iceberg. The real message is underneath.

Try this: next time you’re having a conversation with someone, put your phone away. Make eye contact. Nod. Give them your full attention. If you’re not sure you understand, ask questions. "So what I’m hearing is you feel frustrated because…" It might feel a bit awkward at first, but it works. Trust me.

Now, picture this: You're at a family dinner. Your sibling starts talking about their rough week at work. Instead of just saying, "That sucks," you ask, "What happened?" They start to share more, and you actively listen. You nod, you make empathetic noises, you ask questions. They feel heard and appreciated. You’re not just exchanging words—you’re truly communicating. The bond strengthens. It’s powerful.

Communication is more than just words. It’s about connecting on a human level. It’s about understanding and being understood. And we could all use a bit more of that in our lives. So next time you’re having a chat, remember: it’s not just about what you say—it’s about how you say it and how you listen. Give it a try. You might be surprised at the difference it makes.