This whole series has centered around the goal of perfecting communication skills, but the truth is that, when it comes to communication, the work is never done. The process of improving in the art of communication is a lifelong commitment. We’ve only given introductory explanations of what communication should look like across genres.

Effective communication is essential for practically every area of your life – from personal relationships to collaboration with peers and employees. So far we’ve only considered the spoken word, but in a world where the digital sphere has become more and more of a requirement for good business, being able to communicate effectively through writing has become an essential skill.

While it can vary between cultures and locations, our world is often one marked by a lack of connection. In many places, people seldom converse or even acknowledge one another’s existence. And in a post-COVID world, this phenomenon seems to have only worsened. But why?

Communication is a necessary skill for all of life. We use it on a daily basis. Anytime we speak with someone or send a quick text, we are engaging in a form of communication. It stands to reason, then, that we would want to learn how to communicate effectively.

In our first installment of this series, we made the bold claim that communication is the key to success. This principle rings true in a number of situations and settings. Good communication means the possibility for healthy and vibrant friendships, open family relationships, and effective mentorships. Good communication is really the ultimate superpower.

George Bernard Shaw once said that “The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.” And this quote could encapsulate the universal human experience. In all of our attempts at effective communication, our results are often pitiful.