Last night I saw Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol 2 with my son. (No spoilers, don’t worry!) One of the central characters in the Guardians series is Groot. He is a slightly simple-minded creature who can only say one thing “I am Groot”. Luckily his partner, Rocket, is extremely adept at understanding and deciphering his message. While Groot is often the star of the show, Rocket makes him accessible to everyone.
Although we are speaking the same language, the words that are said and the way that they are interpreted are two different things. Relationships depend heavily on language (both spoken and unspoken). If you want to be understood in any relationship, seek first to understand. Most of us are trying so hard to get our message out, that we forget to put the receivers up. Better listening (and reading of body language) can make you a more effective communicator.
It’s fine to say “I am Groot” if you’re talking to Rocket. The problem comes when someone else needs to understand. Then it’s on you to be clear. No one will be as invested in your message as you are. So put the effort into becoming a better messenger, rather than turning up the volume on your message.
Pete