Many things we simply take for granted after we’ve been doing it for so long. And we might assume others will also naturally see and understand why we make the choices we do. But often we must talk through our daily choices for others to understand and for us to remember as well.
For instance, for a child learning to talk, it’s helpful to talk through every step of our interactions with them. While this seems overly simplified and perhaps unnecessary for the parent, the child must be introduced to these very basic building blocks of language.
Thankfully, as they get older, daily tasks no longer have to be explained to this degree.
However, it’s still helpful to talk through the daily decisions we make.
For example, we might explain why it’s important to get a good night of sleep, to be honest, to go to church, or the like – not as a lecture, but to elaborate on the example we’re setting for them.
As we’re modeling the behaviors we want them to emulate, we’re also helping them to understand the aspirational values behind our actions.
And like the young child learning basic vocabulary to speak, this introduces a vocabulary of morals, values, and guiding principles.
And to be sure, this practice is not just limited to raising kids.
For instance, we can talk through why we boldly stand up for certain issues or how our hope gives us peace despite the many uncertainties of life.
Our actions might not make sense at first glance, but as we talk it through, others might gain a deeper appreciation for why we do what we do.
And to be fair, this often helps us to remember as well.
Slowing down enough to share our reasonings forces us to consider again what we believe and if our actions are aligned with our deeper values and beliefs.
Practice talking through the decisions of your life and relationships. Sharing the heart behind your choices helps others to understand what’s important to you, and for you to remember as well.
