How do you communicate with yourself?

Often when we consider communication we think of two people talking to each other. However, internal communication, how we speak to ourselves, is a more common and often impactful form of communication.

What behaviors, body language, and thoughts we choose are signals of communication to ourselves, from ourselves.

A book that has been a holy grail to me for communication is “7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Steven Covey.

The first three habits in the book are meant to be applied internally.

1. Be Proactive. It is up to you to be proactive. Making the decision to be proactive, not taking events at face value, creating opportunity and taking the initiative are personal decisions that require discipline and good internal communication. You must decide to create and innovate new possibilities. This personal drive is a trait often found in leaders because they are serious about taking the initiative.
2. Begin with the End in Mind. What do you personally want to gain out of a specific experience, goal, project? Being clear with yourself about what objectives you seek makes them more attainable. Clarity, especially with yourself, is your friend.
3. Put First Things First. Prioritizing is a personal decision. The person who knows best what to prioritize is you. It is a task you can not outsource.

To be clear and honest in communication with yourself translates into creating a stronger sense of personal fulfillment. By following the principles listed above your internal communication and alignment will grow.