By Amber Kiggens-Leifheit

MACF Executive Director

The Marshfield Area Community Foundation sponsors the Speak Your Peace Civility Project. The basic principles are simple and straightforward and involve the idea that it is often not what is said but how it is said that initiates conflict. The more we all learn about polite, civil discussion is a good thing. It is worth a try, and it may help bring our community together. This week we will examine: Show Respect.

One study at UCLA indicated that up to 93 percent of communication effectiveness is determined by nonverbal cues. Another study indicated that the impact of a performance was determined 7 percent by the words used, 38 percent by voice quality, and 55 percent by the nonverbal communication.

What body language or nonverbal communication have you experienced? Has anyone ever had someone roll their eyes at you as you presented a new idea or suggestion? Have you had someone constantly looking at their cellphone as you are trying to talk to them?

Often people are not aware of the nonverbal cues they are sending others.

Have you ever offered a new idea or suggestion during a meeting or conversation and had that idea shot down with the inclusion of the word “but?” I have. I think we all have. Sometimes it is justified, but …

People think they are helping the other person out by pointing out what is wrong with their message instead of trying to build on their idea. This “yes, but” syndrome is counterproductive. It focuses the discussion on why something cannot work instead of focusing on building ideas.

We all are not perfect. If we are mindful of the messages we are sending, it will help to create a more respectful environment.

If you are interested to learn more, visit marshfieldareacommunityfoundation.org/index.php?page=speak-your-peace, or give us a call at 715-384-9029.