Understanding self concept is critical to understanding how and why communication occurs. One’s self concept is composed of numerous personal characteristics which come together to form this unique personal perspective (Business Communication: Self Concept, n.d). For me, the notion of self concept is an amalgamation of influences, including how I feel about myself physically and socially, as well has what my interests, talents, and beliefs are in my own mind and opinion (Adler, Rodman, duPre, 20, 2015).
Looking within helps to identify these characteristics, and to better understand how I communicate, and in turn, how I might communicate most effectively. I like to think of this as a case of heightened self-awareness (McLeod, 2008), which can only serve to benefit me in the long run. In assessing how I communicate, I can readily look at the following factors: my strengths, my weaknesses, my values, my beliefs, my attitudes, and my behaviors. How I feel about each of these particular factors is going to influence my own self esteem and self perception (Adler, Rodman, duPre, 31, 33, 2015), which in turn, can greatly impact my style of communication and its efficacy.
My Self Evaluation
For instance, I am an effective and assertive individual, with respect to my own tenacity. By nature, and from a young age, I am simply one of those people who does not readily give up. I am not afraid to fail, or to make a reattempt. I have no issue with rendering apologies, or asking for a ‘do-over,’ as the particular situation may dictate. Given this strong personal trait, I am always a bit surprised that my weaknesses are closely related to these very strengths.
As far as weaknesses, I am shy by nature, and feel that I am not the most effective public speaker. In fact, I am far more confident in my written communications skills. My sense is that I simply lack extensive public speaking experience, rather than lacking self-esteem or confidence. As such, this can easily be mitigated.
The Importance Of Values And Beliefs
My values and belief systems are very traditional, and I think that is reflected in both my down to earth demeanor, and communication style. I am a family-first type of person, with tremendous love and respect for my child, my extended family, and my country. My work ethic is rock solid and in keeping with my ‘never give up’ focus, I am committed to developing my highest and best form of self. This is reflected in the authenticity of my communications and is directly correlated with my self-perception and concept.
My self concept also turns upon my personal attitude and informs my communication style on a constant basis. Above all, I am grateful. I have great humility and remain truly thankful for all that I have been given, including the many life challenges that I have experienced and risen above. I am grateful to God and to the life lessons I have learned thus far. This keeps me polite in my approach, and makes me an extremely compassionate, patient, and effective listener. To me, being a great listener is a vital part of my self concept and something that makes my communication potential very strong.
In terms of behavior, I am unusually perceptive and can exhibit a great deal of empathy, because I am a skilled listener and have a compassionate outlook. I pride myself on being friendly and helpful to others. Service is my passion, and I try to speak in a thoughtful and meaningful manner. It is inherent in my personal makeup to think before I speak or act. To the extent that I can continue to bolster myself concept and to capitalize on my strengths, while mitigating or overcoming weaknesses, my communications ability is only going to flourish more.
- Adler, Ronald B, George R. Rodman, and Athena DuPré. Essential Communication., 2015. Print.
- Business Communication-Self Concept. Institute of Public Administration, Office Management Sector. https://ipabusinesscommunication.wordpress.com/self-concept/. Web. Accessed 12 Feb. 2012.
- McLeod, Samuel. Self Concept. 2008. http://www.simplypsychology.org/self-concept.html Web. Accessed 12 Feb. 2012.
