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Why Do Things Mean What They Mean?

Silhouette of two people with the words "Does what I say have the same meaning for you as it does for me?"

Is there absolute meaning or is it all relative?

Some meaning is denotative, in that it comes from the dictionary. For example, the meaning of “tree” as a large vegetative object is easily agreed upon. But a lot of meaning is connotative, or fluid and suggestion plays a big part in it. For example the meaning of words like important, ethical and different vary based on who is saying or hearing it. 

Good communication happens when people use similar meanings.

If there are misaligned meanings, that’s OK but discuss how to find enough compatibility to work together. There are certainly benefits from seeing things from others’ perspectives. Be open. 

Notice the meaning you give things and notice your meaning-making process as well. Are you managing how you make meaning the best you can to serve your life? We make meaning with mental software. 

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