The human brain is an incredibly vast tool. On a daily basis I am reminded of how incredible our brains are, and yet this daily reminder is still insufficient. I don’t think I will fully grasp the potential of the human brain, but I will do what I can to unfold more of its secrets.

Similiar to most tools, the tasks that can be accomplished are often determined by the wielder. Today I want to empower you to use your brain, the most valuable tool to become a better communicator.

The amygdala is the part of the brain that generates fear in reaction to a threat. This is a reaction that needs to be managed. The faster we can interrupt the amygdala the faster we can clear the road of obstacles and the quicker we can generate feelings of safety and will begin to rebuild trust.

However, it almost seems counter-intuitive for us to address and label our fear.

This is a mistake.

Fears are most powerful when they remain unaddressed. This gives them more influence over your life that is needed. To label your fears and let the truth shine a blinding light on them you will find fear to be stripped of its illusive oppressive power.

We often empower our fear when saying ” I don’t mean this in a negative way” or some other fluffy qualifier hoping the recipient will not take your criticism harshly is a mistake. This mistake is in denying the negative, which actually gives credence to a connotation you don’t want.

Another way to strip fear in communication is to label it. Taking the sting out – lay out the worst that could happen.