We’ve all felt the frustration of poor communication.
But not all communication issues are what they seem. Many stem from misunderstandings about communication itself.
We crave belonging and respect, which often translates into wanting access to all information. But it’s impossible to know everything. There’s no real-time connection between everyone at all times. Accepting this reality is the first step toward improving communication.
When you feel out of the loop, it’s easy to assume someone is withholding information. This can create feelings of exclusion or mistrust. But often, there’s simply nothing new to share, or the timing isn’t right. Not knowing something doesn’t always mean it’s intentional.
Some believe communication is a one-way process, where they are just passive receivers. This ignores a key truth: communication is a two-way effort. Don’t wait for information to find you—be proactive and seek it out.
These misconceptions can hurt communication at both individual and organizational levels. Recognizing them is the first step toward becoming a better communicator.