Part 1: Opportunities to Implement the Plan
Throughout this week, I had the opportunity to implement my Communication Change Challenge (CCC) plan with my colleague, Alex, with whom I share regular communication. We interacted several times during team meetings, one-on-one discussions, and through email exchanges. I made sure to be mindful of the changes I wanted to incorporate in my communication style, particularly focusing on active listening, being empathetic, and avoiding interrupting while Alex speaks. I also paid attention to my body language, maintaining eye contact, and showing genuine interest in our conversations.
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Part 2: Implementation of the CCC Plan
One significant setting where I put my plan into action was during our weekly team meeting. Alex was leading the discussion, and I wanted to actively listen and show support for their ideas. As Alex presented a new project proposal, I made sure not to interrupt or rush to give my opinions immediately. Instead, I took notes, nodding occasionally to show understanding and engagement. When they finished, I asked open-ended questions to seek clarification and express genuine interest in their perspective. I noticed Alex seemed more at ease and open to sharing their thoughts compared to previous meetings.
Part 3: End of the Week – Reflection on CCC
3A. Topic Selection Reflection
Throughout my Communication Change Challenge, I used various course materials to guide my approach. The information from Chapter 3, which covered active listening and empathetic communication, was particularly helpful in shaping my plan. The video on nonverbal communication also played a crucial role in understanding the impact of body language on effective communication. Additionally, articles on conflict resolution and building better relationships provided valuable insights for handling disagreements and creating a positive communication environment.
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3B. Implementation Analysis: Satisfaction
One communication change that particularly pleased me was my ability to practice active listening consistently. By consciously avoiding interruptions and distractions, I noticed that I could grasp the underlying message and emotions behind what Alex was saying. This created a more meaningful and supportive conversation, and I could respond more thoughtfully to their needs and concerns.
3C. Implementation Analysis: Dissatisfaction
One aspect that I found challenging was managing my impatience when Alex was expressing their thoughts. Although I refrained from interrupting, I noticed some restlessness within myself, especially when discussions prolonged. I realized that overcoming this would require more self-awareness and further practice in patience during communication.
3D. Implementation Analysis: Additional Changes
Moving forward, I still want to work on managing my nonverbal cues effectively. While I made efforts to maintain eye contact and display interest, I noticed times when my body language might have conveyed unintended signals. I want to focus on aligning my nonverbal communication with my verbal messages to ensure a consistent and supportive presence in conversations.
In conclusion, my Communication Change Challenge has been a valuable experience in improving my interpersonal communication skills. While I have made progress in some areas, I understand that this is an ongoing process that requires continued effort and awareness. By applying concepts from the course materials, I have witnessed positive changes in my interactions with Alex, leading to more meaningful connections and improved relationship outcomes. I believe that with persistent practice and learning, I can further enhance my communication abilities and continue to build better relationships in both personal and professional spheres.
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