Interpersonal communication plays a huge role in everyday lives. The interaction between two people or a small group is a prime example of interpersonal communication. We partake in communication in almost every situation we encounter throughout our day. At school, work, or social gatherings interpersonal communication is being used without thought.
             Communication helps us define our perception of others as well as our own self-perception, self-concept, and self-esteem. If we can successfully communicate with others it helps build a positive image of ourselves knowing that we can communicate our thoughts and ideas to another person clearly and meaningfully. In contrast, if we cannot communicate this has a poor effect on others perception of us. Our self-concept or mental image we have of ourselves is shaped by the responses we receive from those we communicate with. If our communication skills are perceived and responded to in a positive way this boosts our self-concept and in return boosts our self-esteem. The same applies to the negative perceptions people may have of us; these negative responses can be damaging.
             My greatest weakness and challenge is to learn how to listen more carefully and responsively. I am aware that I should listen first and acknowledge what I hear (even if I do not agree with it) before expressing my experience or point of view. In order to get more of my conversation partner's attention in tense situations, I need to pay attention: to listen and give a brief restatement of what I have heard before I express my own response or position. For example, if my friend is telling me about problems with her husband, an appropriate response might be, "So you are feeling hurt and angry because he is not spending enough time with you and the kids". I need to learn this kind of listening in order to separate acknowledging from approving or agreeing. In addition, I have to learn that acknowledging another ...