The Communication Bill of Rights

The writer came across this Communication Bill of Rights on an Internet website. Unfortunately, she no longer has a record of the rightful source. The writer hopes that as this blog is visited, someone may direct the writer to its originator and she is afforded the opportunity to express her sincere thanks.

In the writer's opinion, the Communication Bill of Rights exemplifies the value systems that allow for good interpersonal skills. Practice these skills and reaffirm the principle of right human relationships.

Total acceptance of all ideas.

Total acceptance does not necessitate total agreement!

The honesty of relationships takes precedent over any issue.

The speaker in any given discussion of issues, sensing any hidden agendas, stops discussing issues and focuses the conversation on the relationship until all parties involved agree that the relationship is honest in that the participants are speaking what they are really thinking and feeling while accepting and respecting what is being said even though they may disagree. Disagreement is healthy. As long as disagreement does not translate to dislike or disrespect. Establish a vehicle for effective disagreement.

The message received is one communicated. 

I am responsible for clarifying my message if I sense it is not being understood.

Anyone part of the problem agrees to be part of an effective solution.

Use please and thank you on a regular basis.

Attempt to understand before insisting on being understood.

Be aware of what effect you are having and whether it is effective.

Walk your talk.

Words are important; actions are definitive. Remember that.

It is your responsibility to speak up if you are dissatisfied or do not like what is going on.

It is your responsibility to ask for what you need or want, not rely on osmosis.

Remember; challenges need to be contextualised as to what will work most effectively within your value system rather than who is right or wrong.

Battlecruisers H.M.S. Hood and H.M.S. Repulse at anchor off Outer Harbour during a visit by the Royal Naval Fleet to South Australia | State Library of South Australia