Lost in Translation: How to Improve Everyday Communication

This post was initially shared during Steven David’s internship and is republished by OSO Wellness to continue emphasizing useful everyday tools for enhancing mental health and relationships.

Effective communication is crucial—not only for maintaining healthy relationships but also for successfully navigating the world around us. Despite its significance, communication often falters due to differences in style, misunderstandings, or mismatched expectations. In fact, entire fields of study are dedicated to understanding how and why we communicate as we do.

There is good reason for this: effective communication is one of the strongest indicators of success in romantic relationships and is a fundamental skill for overall mental wellness. However, even with this understanding, the basics of what communication truly entails can become obscured.

At its essence, communication involves encoding information (expressing thoughts through words or actions), transmitting it via a medium (such as text, speech, or gesture), and having that information decoded by the recipient. The recipient may then encode a response, initiating the process anew.

This may sound straightforward, but in practice, numerous variables make communication far more complex. Here are four key factors that can enhance your ability to communicate effectively:

1. Select Your Medium Carefully

Each method of communication has its trade-offs.

• Texting allows time for thoughtful composition but lacks tone and body language.

• Speaking in person or over the phone provides nonverbal context but doesn’t allow time to process or plan responses.

Being mindful of the medium can help prevent miscommunication from the outset.

2. Focus on Encoding

The way we convey our message—through word choice, tone, and body language—is as important as the message itself. Even with good intentions, unclear or emotionally charged delivery can lead to misinterpretation.

3. Engage in Active Decoding

Hearing words is not equivalent to understanding them. Strive to avoid assumptions, personal biases, or emotional filters when interpreting someone else’s message. Clarify as needed—communication is a reciprocal process.

4. Reduce Noise and Distraction

Even subtle distractions can create emotional distance. For instance, the mere presence of a phone on the table during a conversation can make people feel less connected. Minimizing external “noise” helps individuals feel heard and valued.

Effective communication is not merely a technique—it is a skill grounded in presence, intention, and empathy. The next time you engage in a conversation, take a moment to consider the method, your message, your mindset, and the environment. A little awareness can make your connections stronger, clearer, and more meaningful.

📞 Interested in enhancing your communication skills through therapy? Call OSO Wellness at (804) 409-7525 to schedule an appointment, or visit our Client Portal to request a session online.