I have during my years working for major companies noticed that the internal communication strategy which permeates large organisations usually is “no news is good news”. In contradiction to personal relationships – where silence is a way of saying “back off”. At least it is in my world. However I still find silence a tricky thing to understand. Sometimes it is good and sometimes it’s the worst thing ever. It’s not always obvious knowing when to shut up and when to speak out. And what consequences will be of either action.

You probably know about awkward silence. When you enter a room and sense harsh uncomfortable vibrations. It kind of stings in the chest. Only the spoken word can at this point clear the air. But the wrong word can also make it burst and all of a sudden you are in the middle of a furious red zone.

Then we have the peaceful and loving silence which can heal a broken heart by just being close. It can be such a relief to be among friends, family and loved ones without talking at all. Just be. Don’t you agree?

But when it comes to business and overall communication we must express our plans and clear conflicts by talking. “No news is good news” can easily turn to bad news in the employees minds and create bitterness and actually laziness at work. It’s important to tell the good news. And listen when people talks.
Sometimes we need space to breath and think about how to communicate and make the right decisions. It’s though important to say that you need space and some time alone. Not just walk away and than pop up two weeks later and seriously think people will understand.

In general in our global world I think talking is a much better way to communicate than being quiet. Even if we don’t always find the words we can always give it a try. By being quiet you force people to guess what you want – meaning, you will probably not get what you want.

I truly believe that we all sometime should take another direction than what is obviously in front of us. As we grow older our visions and dreams seem to narrow down and instead of see and explore the beauty of the landscape we tend to put our blinders on and just except it.

I’m not talking about doing big things. I just think that one would be happier if one could be brave enough to keep the eyes open and look around. Dare to be a part of the evolvement of its own surroundings and to meet downturns with a more upright attitude.

Accepting challenges, small or big, is educating and keeps your mind wise. And who doesn’t want to be called wise and intelligent?

Basically, the point is that we all should once in a while make a self-inventory and make an action plan how to keep it up to date. With all what that mean by also trashing those units which are obviously out of date (your obstacles). Consequences of such inventory routine will be a healthier state of mind and a start of enjoying the time here and now. Making more memorable memories.