The ability to communicate clearly — in writing, in person, and under pressure — is the most valuable skill in adult life.
• Listen to understand, not to reply. Most people plan their response while the other person is still talking.
• Ask follow-up questions. 'What was that like?' goes further than 'cool'.
• Be honest, but kind. You can disagree without being unkind.
• In conflict: use 'I feel...' statements rather than 'You always...'. The first is hard to argue with. The second puts people on the defensive.
• Text is easily misread. If something feels tense over message, pick up the phone.