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Writer's pictureJade Lee

Stress Increases Direction

You may have noted that in times of stress people’s communication becomes more directive. This is due to many reasons, but a main factor is that, in times of stress, things need to be achieved in a quick timeframe and we do not feel there is enough time to make the message “fluffier”. When leaders are already direct communicators, the added irritation can push into the realm of aggressiveness when put under stress. Consider the analogy of an army captain in battle when short sharp directions are given to make it clear what needs to be achieved while also highlighting the enormity of what is happening.


When you are under stress, it is easier to become frustrated and being aware of this helps us understand how we may be perceived by others when we are in pressure situations. Recognising that certain people enjoy direct communication while others do not is also important. It is possible to soften a communication style and still be transparent and get your point across without appearing abrasive.


Awareness precedes positive action or improvement. We need to analyse our reactions to see how they are impacting others. However, there are a lot of leaders who do not actively work to improve their self-awareness and in turn their communication. When we are aware that we are coming across as irritated, we can incorporate a compassionate approach to soften the message.



It may be in the words that we are choosing to express ourselves, perhaps, rather than putting “concise and direct communication” on a pedestal, we could recognise that transparent, compassionate and clear communication is also valid.


Noticing and understanding the impact that our tone, choice of words and delivery have on the recipient of the message will start to increase self-awareness immediately even if the journey to perfection in communication is lifelong.

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