The third pitfall of focusing on content is the competition for who is smarter, more intelligent, has more common sense, and knows more facts. One upmanship in communication is often the result of being content oriented. This discounting of the other's intelligence, knowledge, and common sense can result in alienation, isolation, lack of trust, and lack of respect between people Benefits of Effective Communications 1. Effective Listening People who focus on the feelings of messages being sent provide others with nonjudgmental acceptance. This helps the others feel listened to, cared about, and understood.
Feelings are the tools by which people communicate with one another.
Having one's feelings listened to makes a person feel respected, accepted, and draws people closer together. This clarification of feelings concerning the message can lead to mutual understanding and respect, resulting in improved communication. Productive problem solving is not purely content focused, rather it includes and values the feelings of both parties concerning the issue at hand. By valuing their feelings, both parties feel cared for, understood and accepted. This provides the energy for creative problem solving and attaining mutually beneficial solutions.