I was reading a book the other day called The Communication Code and in that book the authors ask this question:
Do you know what it is like to be on the other side of you?
Great question. Well, do you? Do you want to know?
Answering the question allows us to get into the shoes of the people — in our case, we are talking about family situations — that we interact with and see things from their perspective.
If you really want to know, ask your family members the question and see what they say. Make sure you tell them you want their honest feedback. You don’t get to be defensive or argue back when they give you their honest answers.
Ask them not just about your words but your nonverbal cues as well. Are they intimidated when you talk to them? Do you get in their space? Or do they feel relaxed around you and feel like you are open to their thoughts and ideas?
Jesus said, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” When you see how others see you, it will be so much easier to fulfill that command.
