Every 4th of July, Americans celebrate a birthday, the birthday of a nation. Over the course of nearly two and half centuries, the United States of America has experienced periods of great unity and also periods of profound division. It appears what currently unites us is agreement that we are presently undeniably divided.
What can help unite us?
One way we can become united again is for us to become better at communicating. In fact, communication is essential for unity. Communication is a relational activity that involves receiving and listening to the ideas of others as well as expressing our own. Without two-way communication, we cannot achieve unity.
The word communication is derived from the Latin word “communis” which means common. We can more effectively communicate when we learn what we share in common, which is a great starting point for creating connections, building rapport, and over time achieving unity.
Communication that builds unity begins with curiosity to truly learn about others, listening to one another, and hearing each other’s stories and dreams.
Listening with empathy leads to understanding and greater understanding builds trust and respect. Trust and respect are essential for creating unity. When we are united we can rely on one another to accomplish what we cannot do alone.
Diversity can strengthen unity
Unity does not equal sameness. It does not require a lack of diversity; in fact, unity is strengthened and empowered by diversity. If we only communicate with those who share our ideologies and backgrounds we may remain comfortable but will become increasingly divided.
Those who are different from us are likely those who can teach us the most. Be a willing learner.
We can honor differing viewpoints and build unity around shared goals and values. There are many shared values that unite us – freedom, independence, equality, education, achievement, family, and of course, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. What would you add to this list?
Timeless wisdom about striving for unity
The concept that unity is an important trait for a team, organization, or nation has been spoken and written about for millennia. One of the oldest quotes about unity is attributed to Aesop, from the 6th century BCE: “United we stand, divided we fall.”
Other quotes about unity include:
“Unity is strength, division is weakness.” Swahili Proverb
“You can’t have unity without diversity.” Richard Twiss, Native American educator
“We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibers connect us with our fellow men.” Herman Melville, an American novelist
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” Helen Keller
“We are only as strong as we are united, as weak as we are divided.” Albus Dumbledore in “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” by J.K. Rowling
Seek to communicate better.
Listen. Demonstrate empathy. Look for common ground on which to enter into a dialogue that can lead to understanding, trust, and unity. Words can unite or divide, choose carefully. Listen first.
Looking to become a better communicator? Check out these communication tips. Get the book. Consider expert coaching.
“Seek first to understand, then to be understood.” ~ Stephen Covey, in “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People”
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