Unlocking Effective Communication: You are only as good as the last thing you read

Uday PB
4 min readMay 19, 2023

--

You are only as good as what you last read or watched.

Good content can boost your communication

Ever realized how consuming great content right before an important meeting boosts your self-confidence and fills your brain with words and phrases you can use right off the bat?

Well, that's your short-term memory and subconscious helping you.

Let's switch gears and address the premise, we can then come back to how you can get past brain fog or setbacks.

Communication is a fundamental aspect of human interaction, and how we convey our thoughts and ideas can greatly impact our success in various endeavours.

Within this realm, there exists a singular framework that influences how we engage with others and effectively utilize our knowledge to write and communicate.

Let's explore the significance of this framework, which serves as the cornerstone of our communication abilities.

By closely observing its workings, we can enhance our understanding of how to optimize our brain’s potential, bolster our short-term memory, and ultimately improve our effectiveness in communicating with others.

It is no secret that our brain operates more efficiently when our short-term memory is filled with relevant information. This concept has been affirmed through numerous studies, demonstrating that the availability of pertinent knowledge can significantly bolster our cognitive capabilities.

Renowned neuroscientist Andrew Huberman has conducted extensive research on the impact of reading on brain function.

His findings reveal an intriguing connection between reading and the engagement of our vocal cords during the process.

According to Huberman, reading aloud or subvocalizing activates neural pathways responsible for comprehension and retention, thus enhancing our overall understanding and memory retention.

First interview experience

One notable instance that sheds light on the importance of consuming relevant information is the first interview experience. During this crucial event, individuals often find themselves in a position where they must showcase their knowledge and effectively communicate their thoughts to prospective employers or higher authorities.

Reflecting on such experiences provides valuable insights into how our brains function when exposed to the right information. It becomes apparent that thorough preparation and assimilation of relevant knowledge not only boosts our confidence but also facilitates the articulation of ideas with clarity and precision. The first interview experience serves as a testament to the profound impact of consuming the right information on our ability to communicate effectively.

Conviction

Another significant aspect of effective communication lies in the power of conviction. When we genuinely believe in something, we have the ability to persuade and influence others.

Conviction emanates from a deep understanding of a subject and the unwavering belief in its validity. People are naturally drawn to those who exude confidence and conviction, as it instils trust and credibility in their words. By ardently standing behind our ideas, backed by thorough research and understanding, we can inspire others to share our viewpoints.

Unhealthy content = junk / unhealthy food

The brain is a remarkable organ that adapts to the stimuli it receives. When we consume unhealthy content, such as sensationalized news, mindless social media scrolling, or excessive exposure to violence and negativity, our brain undergoes significant changes. Just like a poor diet can lead to weight gain and health problems, the continuous intake of unhealthy content can result in cognitive decline, decreased attention span, and impaired critical thinking skills.

One of the primary effects of unhealthy content is the impact it has on our ability to focus. With the constant barrage of distractions, our brain becomes accustomed to a fragmented and shallow way of processing information. This leads to a diminished capacity to concentrate on tasks that require deep thinking and sustained attention.

Just as maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet is vital for physical health, cultivating a healthy content diet is crucial for our mental and emotional well-being. Being mindful of the content we consume and its potential effects on our brains is essential in today’s information-driven society.

Coming back to communication

Mastering the art of effective communication requires a comprehensive understanding of the singular framework that underlies our interactions. By recognizing the significance of consuming relevant information, we can optimize our brain’s potential, enhance our short-term memory, and elevate our communication skills. The research of Andrew Huberman highlights the role of reading in engaging our vocal cords, leading to improved comprehension and retention. Additionally, reflecting on personal experiences, such as the first interview, emphasizes the impact of consuming the right information on effective communication.

Ultimately, the power of conviction solidifies our ability to persuade others, emphasizing the importance of developing a strong foundation of knowledge and understanding.

Watch great content to percolate new ideologies

One of the remarkable benefits of consuming great content is its ability to expand our perspectives.

By exposing ourselves to diverse viewpoints, ideologies, and experiences, we open the door to new ways of thinking.

Engaging with well-crafted films, insightful documentaries, or thought-provoking literature can challenge our preconceived notions and encourage us to consider alternative viewpoints.

This exposure fosters empathy, understanding, and a more comprehensive view of the world.

Read and watch great content, and improve the way you speak and the confidence you exude.

--

--

Uday PB
Uday PB

Written by Uday PB

Above the ground today, below tomorrow. Psychology, philosophy, and maybe code - my trifecta, follow for musings on such topics.

No responses yet