Word Picture

word picture

Ever since my wife and I started dating we have used a method called “word pictures” to help us communicate. Let’s face it, men and women are apples and oranges and getting the point across is mostly easier said than done.

Here’s how it works:

When I have something to say to my wife that she may not understand, like for example if I want to explain how things are going at my work with my co-workers of something. I might compare it to something she can see and feel, or something she has experienced first hand. I might use names and places of people at her work to make a bridge to explaining what someone at my work is like etc.

If you have kids this is also an effective device. In explaining something to a kid, you go a long way if you “translate” into their experience. For example, if you have a great day at work, you might explain to a child that is was like you kicked a goal or hit a home run out of the park. Of course, the word picture you choose depends on the child, the child’s age, interest and such. The key is finding some things meaningful to them.

This also works extremely well with expressing feelings. Now, make no mistake, I am by no means an expert communicator with my wife. However, I do know that this method works and it can work for you whether you are a man or a woman. Once I told my wife that when she supports me in hobbies it makes me feel as if I am hang-gliding. That creates a picture that simple words could never produce. Another time she told me when I don’t help out around the house she feels “trapped” in a box. That was a very powerful picture I received.

Word pictures are very powerful and anybody can use them. Try these steps:

1. Think of the things you’d like to get across.
2. Make a list of things your wife can create with that have to do with it.
3. Insert the word picture in the context of what you are trying to say.

This is a simple yet highly effective way of communicating better with your significant other.

Do you communicate effectively with your significant other?

Guest Blogger: Damien Riley

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This entry was posted on Friday, March 7th, 2008 at 12:14 pm and is filed under Love, Relationship. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.