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One of the most remarkable traits that sets humans apart is our ability to communicate complex thoughts, emotions, and ideas. Whether through spoken or written words, visuals, or other forms of expression, communication is the foundation of human connection.
At its core, communication is the act of transferring information from one person (or group) to another. Sounds simple, right? If only!
In reality, communication is a nuanced process influenced by multiple factors, many of which interfere with how effectively we convey and receive messages.
Every individual has unique filters – deep-seated mental frameworks shaped by beliefs, personality, culture, language, education, experiences, and expectations. These filters reside in the subconscious mind and act as an invisible lens through which we interpret the world. While we can work to identify and shift limiting beliefs, as long as communication relies on spoken and written language rather than telepathic exchange, these filters will continue to shape and sometimes distort our messages.
The Encoding and Decoding Process
When person A wants to share a thought with person B, the process begins with encoding – putting the idea into words and non-verbal cues, influenced by person A’s own filters. Much of this happens subconsciously, meaning the sender isn’t always aware of how their filters are shaping the message.
Next comes transmission, where the sender chooses a medium – spoken word, written text, or digital communication. Despite rapid advancements in technology and communication channels, most interactions still rely on verbal or written language.
When person B receives the message, they must decode it—interpreting the meaning through their own unique filters. This is where things can go astray. The recipient’s background, beliefs, emotions, and past experiences all influence how they perceive the message. This explains why misinterpretations are so common – what the sender intends is not always what the recipient hears or understands. And when a message is meant for multiple people, the number of possible interpretations grows exponentially.
To communicate effectively, we must be aware of these filters – both our own and those of our audience. By intentionally encoding messages with clarity, empathy, and understanding of the recipient’s perspective, we can reduce the likelihood of miscommunication.
Beyond Words: The Role of Tone and Body Language
Another critical factor in communication is how we deliver the message. Research suggests that only 7% of meaning is conveyed through words, while 
38% comes from tone of voice, and a staggering 55% from body language.
This means that even the most carefully chosen words can be misinterpreted if our tone and body language send a different signal. Since much of this non-verbal communication happens subconsciously, increasing our awareness of our facial expressions, gestures, and vocal tone can significantly improve the clarity and impact of our message.
The Key to Effective Communication: Active Listening
Communication isn’t just about transmitting a message – it’s about ensuring that it is understood. That’s why listening is just as important as speaking.
Active listening – listening with the intent to understand, rather than simply to respond – is a skill that transforms communication. It bridges the gap between sender and receiver, reducing misunderstandings and fostering deeper connections.
At the heart of all communication is the goal of mutual understanding. By becoming more conscious of our own filters, fine-tuning how we encode and transmit messages, and honing our listening skills, we can enhance the way we connect with others, both personally and professionally.
Written by:
Liezl Thom
www.liezlthom.com