GUMPTION TRAPS

Author Robert M. Persig writes about the value of gumption, enthusiasm, and the variety of gumption traps divided into two types: setbacks and hangups.  External circumstances cause setbacks.  Internal circumstances cause hangups. 

Happenings outside ourselves are usually out of our control.  How we handle these setbacks may drain our enthusiasm.   Hangups within ourselves can come from our ego, rigid value systems, false information, anxiety, boredom, and impatience.  We do have some control over these conditions.  

Setbacks or hangups, free yourselves from gumption traps.

DO SOMETHING

Consider your time, energy, and talents, then do something to improve yourself, your family members, friends, neighbors, and our nation.  If you need improvement, do something  When another person needs your help, do something.  When your country needs your voice, consider the candidates, make a decision, and vote.

When you are busy doing something, remember to set aside some time to relax and refresh by doing nothing.      

DO NOTHING

 Spending time doing nothing is good for your health and well-being so say some experts.  This is not being lazy. Put aside the electronic devices, forget the to-do list, and let your body and mind relax.  This may be harder for some than for others.  Perhaps start with five minutes in a comfortable chair or take a slow walk out in nature.  Slow down, take a break, and you will find yourself refreshed.

Once you have set aside time to do nothing, remember to plan time to do something.        

EARTH

 Our home, Earth orbiting the sun with a moon orbiting Earth.  We are a small part of the universe.  During a solar eclipse, the moon aligns between the sun and earth and casts its shadow.  During a lunar eclipse, Earth aligns between the sun and moon and casts its shadow.  What wonders to behold!

As inhabitants of Earth, we need to take care of our home as it holds us close, provides the soil, plants, and fellow creatures plus the water and air, all essential for survival.  We are responsible to care for our home.      

WHO ARE WE?

 
Communication is influenced by our identity, a combination of factors from family, community, education, religion, and life experiences.  Ethnicity also plays a part in how we see ourselves and how others see us.  Everyone has their own point of view, beliefs, and opinions.  Perhaps the more alike we are, the easier the conversation.  Perhaps the more diverse we are, the more difficult the communication, but also the more we can learn and grow.  Recognizing our bias, stereotypes, and prejudices will improve our understanding. 

Social communication includes how each person relates to others.  Every human is unique but similar, and we all have the need to connect to others.  A first step in communication may be to realize our many similarities, what we have in common.  Next our differences can be explored.  Honoring each other is vital.  Each person should have the chance to participate.  Our goal may or may not be changing minds. 

My blog was inspired by the book "Supercommunicators" by Charles Duhigg.

HOW DO WE FEEL?

Part of communication is being aware of how we feel and how the other person or people feel.  As the communication progresses, we can tell by body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice how the conversation is going and then respond considering the emotions.  Listening and trying to understand other feelings about topics being discussed is essential.

Some topics are more emotional than others; they may bring about positive or negative feelings.  The emotional maturity of the individuals influences the possibility of success.  Feeling empathy toward each other improves the conversation.  We need to get comfortable expressing our feelings and try to make others comfortable expressing theirs.

The communication may be begin with "How do you feel about ....?" or "I would like to hear your thoughts about ...." or  follow up with "Why do you feel .... about ....?"  Sometimes, we already know the other person's opinions are different than ours.  We may have a conflict or disagreement that needs to be discussed.  Someone we love may need an intervention to face problems with alcohol, drugs or gambling.  The people involved need to deal with their emotions  and keep the conversation polite and civil.

     

My blog was inspired by the book "Supercommunicators" by Charles Duhigg.

WHAT'S THIS REALLY ABOUT?

Communication with one person or a group of people can be improved and become more successful.  Often you know in advance what topics you want to talk about and can prepare how you want to begin, what questions to ask, and imagine possible reactions.  Listening is as important as speaking.  Watch for  clues about how the communication is going: signs of boredom, changing the subject, sounds of agreement like yah, uh-huh, eye contact, facial expressions, body language. Feedback keeps the communication going.

  

Many communications are about practical matters, a situation or problem to be discussed, and possible goals, plans, and solutions. Realize your beliefs and values may differ, but appreciate each other.

My blog was inspired by the book "Supercommunicators" by Charles Duhigg.