“You must speak straight so that your words may go as sunlight to our hearts.”

-- Cochise

John Gray has noted that communication styles differ between men and women. He has observed that women tend to circle through related ideas before we get to the point we want to express. Men, on the other hand, tend to make their point directly, without preamble.

Is this true for you?

If this is generally the case for women, is it because this is indeed our natural way of communicating? Or is this because we’ve been conditioned to hide the truth? To pussy-foot around so we don’t anger or hurt anyone?

Consider Patricia Lynne Reilly’s comment below. How does her perspective sit with you?

I’d love to get your feedback on this! Write to me (Patrice) at women at heart.

“A woman who loves herself makes direct statements in response to the requests of others, sets clear limits in her interactions with others, and offers respectful solutions to her interpersonal challenges. With courage and respect for her own life, she no longer hides her truth within convoluted narratives and indirect explanations. Initially, her use of the vocabulary of truth is awkward. Eventually, her responses become graceful and effective.”