It is so easy to be careless with our words, even though words have tremendous power to either connect us or distance us from others.  Choosing words more carefully can improve communication and result in a closer connection with those we love.  A more careful way of communicating is by using Vulnerable Language.  Using Vulnerable Language means using words that show our true thoughts and feelings to the listener.

We are vulnerable when we use feeling words such as, “I felt (happy, hurt, scared) when …” Speaking these words allows the listener to see into our internal world.  Sharing our feelings with those who respect us can increase closeness and encourage true understanding.  However, not every feeling word is vulnerable.  Some feeling words, like anger and frustration, are not vulnerable because they keep us distant from the listener. Read More