The movie Forrest Gump touched, moved, and inspired people 20+ years ago. The life lessons from the movie are just as relevant today as they were back in 1994. They give the movie it’s timeless nature.
This series is dedicated to listing the many life lessons from the movie that we can incorporate into our daily lives to feel more peace and love … and to live our lives with Gumption.
Communicate Clearly
Words have meaning.
In the English language, words have multiple meanings.
The meaning of many words depends on the context in which the word is used.
When Forrest first met Bubba on the Army bus on their first day of basic training, Bubba asked Forrest, “Have you ever been on a real shrimp boat?” Forrest replied, “No, but I’ve been on a real big boat.” Bubba clarifies, “I’m talking about a shrimp catchin’ boat.”
Every day we communicate – and miscommunicate – with family, co-workers, and friends.
We say something with one meaning and the other person takes a different understanding.
They say something and we interpret it differently than the way it was meant.
In the best cases, it’s humorous … like the exchange between Forrest and Bubba.
In the worst cases, feelings get hurt and wars break out – literally or figuratively.
Communicating clearly is a challenge. A continuous challenge.
Principal #3 of Gumption is to take 100% personal responsibility for your interactions with others.
Communicating clearly is your responsibility.
The easiest way to communicate clearly is to listen carefully. Attempt to understand both the words and the context of the other person.
And when you do speak, do so with compassion for the other person. Be aware of context. Be sympathetic to the notion that they’re likely somewhere else … and won’t know where you’re coming from.
Children miscommunicate. It’s adorable and funny.
Adults miscommunicate. Feelings get hurt. Wars begin.
Take responsibility for your communication. Communicate clearly. Live your life with Gumption.