People often say that communication is the foundation of any relationship. A strong, lasting bond can be built on the practice of good communication skills. And yes, this theory sounds logical. It’s easy to nod along and agree: open communication should lead to better understanding, fewer conflicts, and stronger connections. But the reality? It’s not always that straightforward.
I used to believe in this theory wholeheartedly. Not just believe in it, but practice it diligently. I thought that as long as I communicated openly: shared my thoughts, feelings, and concerns, everything would work out for the better. Well, it worked for a while, until it didn’t. I got stuck, tangled in a web of words and emotions that didn’t seem to bring the clarity or resolution I’d been promised.
Soon, I reached a point where I didn’t know how to bridge the gap between communication and true understanding. Despite trying to express myself, my words sometimes felt like they were falling into a void, or worse, causing friction (which I hate the most). Eventually, I made a decision—a counterintuitive one. I chose not to communicate. Instead, I avoided it. I let the conversations remain unspoken and the feelings unsaid. It wasn’t because I didn’t want to be understood. It was because I felt exhausted and unfulfilled by attempts that seemed to lead nowhere but a conflict.
