The use of metaphors.

All of my friends and many of my colleagues know that I use metaphors.

I love them.

Not only are metaphors as powerful as a visual picture can be when driving a message home, they are also a practical communication tool that enables speakers and listeners to connect on another level.

The use of metaphors promotes a deeper understanding as the listener feels the confirmation of being understood.

The metaphor also provides a condensed and new way of saying an entire story without all the words and for many people, that spells RELIEF.

Metaphors are thought provoking tools that make complex things simple by directing comprehension and attention immediately.

I use metaphors to help someone understand a concept or principle that they cant seem to grasp because their emotions are in the way. In those cases, I need to literally pull the person out of the weeds. Capiche?

When people cant think straight its because their emotions override their rationale, a good, on-point metaphor can often stop someone from continuing in their unhelpful focus. Suddenly, all the emotion (usually negative and self-depreciating) swirling around them is extinguished by a metaphor that provides insight and gives hope. For example, using the metaphor of getting out of the weeds is much more powerful and liberating than telling someone they have a problem with critical thinking, being emotionally unbalanced or being too comprehensive, all of which may be completely true. Right?

Metaphors function to narrow the focus on key messages in an exchange and enable participants to establish symbolic guideposts of ideas to build upon throughout the discussion. Also, the use of metaphors clearly promotes the idea that the listener is engaging in a deliberate, thoughtful and strategic exchange because it takes a little effort to use metaphors effectively. The listener should have a sense of awareness that they are in a communication process that is both astute and constructive.

People do not want to feel more vulnerable or exposed then they already do in their head when things are not going right. If you can use a metaphor or two to lighten up the distress, thats always a good thing.

I am amazed at how emotional distress can turn to humour in response to a well timed and well placed metaphor.

Currently I have pleasure of working with a lively bunch of colleagues who do a ton of serious work in all sorts of specialized ways.

Some of the issues that have to be addressed are heartfelt and some are extremely worrisome but many of us retain an ability to avoid getting bogged down by using metaphors to describe what is experienced.

However, the true magic of metaphors as communication tools rests precisely in the fact that metaphors operate in the realm of the symbolic.

Symbolism which is rich with innate meaning, allows us to cross fundamental barriers to understanding and at a very deep level, symbols connect us all, especially when offered with compassion.

Try using metaphors. They are wonderful communication tools which can make your work and relationships easier as you demonstrate your symbolic understanding and create a sense of ease with those you engage with.

If you're like me, you will use them to keep light hearted about those tricky or sticky situations that cause us to move away from our wellbeing.

Creative expression heals as well as humour so --use metaphors. Deep connections or humorous ones await.