Breakthrough in Communication

During the 2025 CEF Expert Development Program, I experienced a significant breakthrough that fundamentally reshaped the way I communicate, not only in a professional context but also in my everyday life. One of the most enlightening moments occurred during an exercise where I became acutely aware of patterns of impatience in group interactions. It was in this setting that I recognized my tendency to rush conversations, often defaulting to closed questions that encouraged quick answers rather than fostering meaningful dialogue.

Recognizing and Overcoming Communication Habits

This newfound awareness struck me profoundly. I realized that my pursuit of efficiency in conversations sometimes came at the expense of co-created results. It became clear that effective communication was not just about asking questions, but about how those questions were framed. Closed questions, I observed, tend to shut down further exploration, while open questions invite discussion and new ideas. I drew inspiration from a colleague who, despite running an efficient team, noticed—through feedback—that his management style left little room for suggestions or comments. This highlighted for me how my own preference for a streamlined approach could inadvertently restrict the team's potential, sacrificing creativity and collaboration for the sake of speed.

Learning from Emotional Responses and Nonverbal Cues

Another powerful moment arose when we reflected on our emotional responses during tense discussions. I was introduced to the concept of “contracting”—the practice of agreeing on goals, boundaries, and expectations in conversations built on trust. During this process, I became more attuned to the vast amount of information communicated through posture, movement, and other nonverbal cues. It felt as though I was learning a new language—one that had always been present but to which I had never truly paid attention.

Through practice, we learned to read these nonverbal signals and to formulate open-ended questions. Although challenging at first, this approach proved to be extremely rewarding. I observed conversations deepening, trust growing, and insights emerging that might otherwise have remained hidden.

Applying New Skills Beyond the Workplace

This shift in communication style was not limited to theoretical exercises. It had a tangible impact on my personal life, particularly during discussions about our house refurbishment with my husband. Instead of leaping to conclusions or trying to steer the conversation, I applied active listening techniques. I asked open questions, allowed space for his thoughts, and resisted the urge to interrupt. As a result, our discussions became more collaborative, both of us felt genuinely heard, and our decisions began to reflect both our perspectives.

The Ripple Effect of Change

What surprised me most about this journey was how the changes in my communication style extended outward. My husband noticed the difference not just in our renovation discussions but in our everyday conversations. This shift brought about a new level of mutual respect and understanding in our relationship.

Conclusion: Communication as a Mindset

This experience taught me that communication is not merely a skill to be acquired but a mindset to be embraced. Whether at work, at home, or in any interaction, approaching conversations with patience, curiosity, and openness transforms the way I connect with others. This is a lesson I will carry with me always.