Context explains not excuses

When it comes to communication, context can be important. It helps to frame and understand where you’re coming from, why you’re wanting to address something and often times even what you’re hoping to achieve in the conversation.  Context can be a guide.  It can also be a pretty helpful starting off point.

And as helpful as context can be, it’s there to help offer an explanation for where something might have gone awry. It’s not there to offer an excuse as to why something happened.

When you use the context to excuse your behavior, you’re removing the accountability from your actions and your choices.

When you use the context to help explain where your head (or heart) was at when you made the choices you did, it can help partner better understand your point of view.

Remember, when you’re communicating, make sure the context is there to help explain but never becomes the excuse.  Use caution and take it slow to ensure you’re explaining, not excusing.  And in amongst it all, be ultra sure you’re owning your part of the issue.

I’m cheering you on.

~ A