Tone
We need to talk.
Whether it is spoken, a text, or an email, you likely would interpret this phrase more along the lines of, “we need to talk (angry emoji, explosion emoji, general cloud of doom).”
Reread the first sentence as Crush (the turtle from Finding Nemo).
The tone through which you interpret has changed, and so has the impact of the message. You also may have unwittingly included “dude,” at the end of the sentence.
Smile. For real- put the biggest smile possible on your face, and reread the first sentence. Again, new tone, new experience.
You listen to and interpret incoming messages with some form of a tone.
It is your choice whether that tone is kind and generous.
What tone have you allowed to become your default?
Kombucha reads emails through the tone of Scoby Doo,
-Morning Cup