Communication Constipation

Say What You Mean: How to Deal with Communication Constipation

Intro

Do you ever find yourself in a situation where you desperately want to say something, but can't seem to find the right words? Do you ever struggle to express yourself clearly and end up avoiding conversations altogether? If so, you're not alone. Communication constipation is an all-too-common problem that can cause misunderstandings, feelings of frustration, and difficulty making meaningful connections with others. In this blog post, we'll discuss how to deal with communication constipation and provide tips on how to break through the barrier to say what you mean.

Why we do it

Communication constipation, or the act of holding back our true thoughts and feelings, is a common occurrence in today’s society. There are various reasons why we do it, including the fact that our body, mind, and soul may not be in sync, resulting in blocks in our energy centers, such as a blocked throat chakra.

Underlying reasons for communication constipation can also stem from life experiences, previous trauma, people-pleasing, uncertainty about our life purpose or journey, or difficulty in identifying with ourselves or others. Sometimes, we may feel overwhelmed with responsibilities and have no time for self-care, leading us to push aside our own needs. Additionally, when we are faced with obstacles in our path, it can be tempting to shut down and withhold our thoughts and feelings to avoid potential conflict or rejection.

Lastly, communication constipation can also be a habit. We may have been programmed to follow along with societal norms and expectations, regardless of our own thoughts and feelings. It can be challenging to break away from these habits and find clarity in our own voice.

Signs of Communication Constipation

One of the most obvious signs of communication constipation is the inability to verbally express emotions. People who suffer from this often lack the self-confidence to say what they mean, leading to them either lashing out with aggressive words or giving silent treatment. Physical symptoms like neck aches, sore throat, feelings of something caught in your throat, difficulty swallowing, thyroid concerns, laryngitis, and feelings of anxiousness or sadness may also occur.

Those who are at risk of communication constipation may also be fearful of disappointing others and get offended if their suggestions are not taken seriously. They may have difficulty finding the right words to fully express themselves and often avoid difficult or intimate conversations. Clarity in communication becomes a major issue in this scenario, and it is vital to address it before it becomes a chronic problem.

Consequences of Keeping It In

When we choose to keep our thoughts and feelings bottled up inside, it can have a significant impact on our overall well-being. Here are some of the consequences of communication constipation:

1. Increased stress: Holding back our thoughts and emotions can lead to heightened levels of stress. This is because we are not releasing our feelings and thoughts in a healthy way, causing them to build up and weigh heavily on our minds.
2. Difficulty with relationships: Communication is key in any relationship, whether it’s with a romantic partner, family member, or coworker. When we fail to communicate openly and honestly, it can lead to misunderstandings, mistrust, and damaged relationships.
3. Physical health problems: Research has shown that chronic stress can lead to physical health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and a weakened immune system. When we don't communicate our thoughts and feelings, it can contribute to this chronic stress.
4. Missed opportunities: When we don't speak up and share our ideas or thoughts, we miss out on potential opportunities and growth. Whether it's at work or in personal relationships, our reluctance to communicate can hinder our success.
5. Regret: In the long run, we may regret not speaking up and saying what we truly meant. This can lead to feelings of disappointment and missed opportunities that we may not be able to regain.

Speaking Up Tips

1. Be Clear and Concise: Before speaking up, take a moment to think about what you want to say and how to say it. Clarity is key in communication.
2. Practice Active Listening: Pay attention to what others are saying, ask questions and show interest. This will create a safe and respectful environment for open communication.
3. Use “I” Statements: Avoid using blaming or accusatory language, instead use “I” statements to express your thoughts and feelings without placing blame on others.
4. Timing is Everything: Choose the right time and place to speak up. Avoid confrontations in public or when emotions are high.
5. Don’t Apologize for Speaking Up: Your thoughts and feelings matter, don’t apologize for expressing them. You have the right to be heard and respected.
6. Keep an Open Mind: Allow people to express different perspectives and opinions. Don’t dismiss or ignore them, use them as opportunities for growth and learning.
7. Follow Up: After speaking up, follow up with the person or group to ensure that your message was heard and understood. This will promote clarity and prevent miscommunication.

By following these tips and seeking professional help, if necessary, you can overcome communication constipation and express yourself with clarity and confidence. Remember, your voice matters!

Conclusion

Remember, communication is essential to our well-being and success. Communication constipation can prevent us from experiencing deep connections with others and limit our growth. The fear of rejection or judgment should not hinder our ability to speak our minds and express ourselves authentically. With the tips mentioned above, you can overcome communication constipation and enjoy the freedom of expressing yourself more freely. Start the process of healing today, and you'll see how much it benefits your personal and professional life. Speak your truth, and the universe will listen!