To Connect and Disconnect
Module 4-Journal Entry #3
W4-#1 According to Petersen (2007), “communication has two levels-sharing information and connecting with others” (p. 18). Communication is something I do every single day. I communicate with my friends, family, and co-workers. They all play a significant role in my life and as a result, I need to “love and accept them in how I listen, talk, and value them” (Petersen, 2007, p. 18). As an S personality type, or steady specialist, “people expect me to be a true friend and faithful servant” (Carbonell, 2008, p. 32). Although this is what people expect this of me, I believe this applies to my everyday life. I always strive to be a true friend. I also strive to be a faithful servant, especially when it comes to serving in my church and working as a playground supervisor and substitute custodian within my local school district. Whenever the supervisor at my custodial job asks me to do a specific task, I complete it. Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV) says, “Whatever you do, work heartily as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ”. I have come to realize how valuable it is to complete whatever the Lord gives me with a cheerful attitude. Cheerfulness is excellent medicine (Proverbs 17:22, NIV). When my co-workers say something negative at my custodial job I listen to what they have to say, smile, and continue on with my work. As much as I should respond, my goal is to remain positive and do the job I was hired for, without complaining. Even though the work is tedious and stressful at times, I am thankful to God for providing with the job. Interpersonal communication is an essential aspect of both the positions I hold. As a substitute playground supervisor and custodian, it is crucial for me to view all the people I work with and for as unique, emotional, and responsive individuals. All people have their own personalities, which means I need to demonstrate flexibility in how I communicate and interact with them. According to Petersen (2007), “poor communication blocks access to the deeper relationships we want and our friendships remain distant and impersonal” (p. 22). When I communicate poorly with my co-workers and the children I supervise, the relationship I …show more content…
Learning to connect, rather than disconnect will improve both the relationships I have and how I communicate with the people I interact with on a daily basis. Learning to apply the characteristics of my behavioral blends will also guide me in how I communicate with those around me. It is also important for me to treat others the same way I wish to be treated (Matthew 7:12, ESV). Loving and accepting those around me for who they are will demonstrate I care for them. It will also show I have an interest in what they tell me. As an S and S/D behavioral blend, it is imperative for me to demonstrate my ability and desire to be a loyal and true friend. I also need to show I am a diligent worker. Communicating effectively with others involves connecting with and getting to know them on a personal level. Building relationships with others gives me the opportunity to share personal information. It also gives me the opportunity to learn how to trust those around me. Connecting with others helps improve my relationships and communication, while disconnecting does not since it could lead to conflict and