Understanding the Law of Projection: Empowering Your Communication with 3 Skills
In today's fast-moving world, our nervous system is constantly being challenged and in social settings the art of communication goes a long way.
The Law of Projection is tells us that we project our own feelings, beliefs, or insecurities onto other people unconsciously. The moment you know this, you learn to take intentional control over your current means of communication and interaction with others to have more meaningful and intentional connections.
Likewise, the Law of Projection reminds us that we don’t control how others perceive or interpret us. It’s crucial to recognize that not every interaction, no matter how well-intentioned, will always be received as we hope.
Below, I will outline three key skills I learned over 20 years ago that has transformed how I speak and why I am speaking.
These skills will enable you to become a robust communicator understanding the Law of Projection: first, the use of silence; second, the timing of when you speak and what you say; and finally, your use of presence.
1. The Power of Silence
Silence is a profound tool that most people overlook. By pausing before speaking, one not only collects his thoughts but also leaves space for deep reflection. In moments of silence, you are given the chance to observe your projections. Are you reacting in a particular situation because of some hidden fear or insecurity, or are you approaching a situation with clarity and intention?
Exercise #1: Take a breath in discussions before responding. Use the silence to anchor yourself and reflect on whether your response is a projection or true to your intention.
2. Timing: When to Speak and What Words You Choose
Effective communication isn't just about what you say, but also about when you say it. Timing plays a very important role in the delivery of your message with impact. Choosing your words carefully means to speak from within your life force, intuition, wisdom and makes sure that what is expressed is actually what you wanted to express and not a projection.
Exercise #2: Be more aware of the timing in delivering your message. This skill helps you to be aware of your thoughts, and emotions. Observe the energy in the room and select your words carefully. Not only does it avoid misunderstandings, but it also strengthens your message to make it even stronger.
3. Using Your Presence
Before you even had a word said, your presence has spoken volumes. Learning how to use that presence can change the energy of any conversation. The more self-aware and comfortable you are with yourself, the more others are drawn to you, and the better your message is conveyed. By becoming more aware of how you're sending your energy out into the world, you more effectively navigate interactions and avoid projecting insecurities onto other people.
Action Tip: Develop your presence through mindfulness, physiology, and psychological awareness. Come from a confidence, authenticity, and congruence standpoint, in a place where your energy reflects who you are at the center of your being, not what you are afraid of.
Here are my final thoughts about mastering the Law of Projection. We aren't going to control much but what we can leverage is understanding how you currently communicate, and embodying the skills to enable you to do this with intention. Overtime, with life practice you will learn how to harness the power of silence, perfect your timing and word choice, and use your presence in service to taking your relationships to the next level.