As an entrepreneur and leader for over 29 years, I’ve realized that success—whether in business or in life—comes down to one thing: Relationships. And at the heart of every relationship is communication. I can look back on some of my biggest mistakes, both personally and professionally, and see that they boiled down to one root issue: Poor communication or simply not communicating at all.
Here’s the thing: I take 100% responsibility for my outcomes and actions. When I started to really focus on this, I understood that communication is everything. It doesn’t just show up in how we speak, but in how we listen, how we set expectations, and how we stay open to the other person’s needs. It’s why I’ve committed to mastering this skill and making it part of my life’s work. Whether I’m learning from NLP or practicing mindful communication as taught by Thich Nhat Hanh, I’m in this journey for the long haul.
Let me tell you why I believe communication is the key to running a thriving business and living a fulfilling life.
Why Communication Is the Backbone of Relationship-Based Businesses.
Most businesses today are relationship-based. Whether you're a coach, car dealer, agency owner, or entrepreneur, the way you communicate with your clients, team members, and partners directly impacts your success. And here’s something I’ve learned firsthand: If you’re not really listening to what matters to your clients, your team members, or employees—if you’re tone-deaf to their needs—you’re going to miss out, big time.
When I was working in real estate, I had a natural talent for closing deals. If I went to list a house, I’d usually walk out with the listing. But here’s where I went wrong: I wasn’t always setting clear expectations or boundaries upfront. Sure, I could build rapport and get the deal done, but because I wasn’t fully communicating, the relationship sometimes suffered. Had I taken the time to communicate better from the start—setting expectations, really understanding what my clients needed and how I could best serve them—the entire process would’ve been smoother for everyone.
Once I picked up on this, I course-corrected. I started putting communication at the center of everything I did. I didn’t just rely on rapport; I relied on setting the stage and making sure everyone was on the same page. The result? Those clients turned into raving fans who referred me over and over. That’s the power of communication when you’re fully present and aligned with what the other person needs.
The Cost of Being Tone Deaf in Communication.
One of the biggest mistakes you can make as a business owner—or in any relationship, really—is being tone deaf to what matters to the person you’re talking to. If you’re so focused on your own agenda, or you’re not really listening, you’re going to lose. It can cost you deals, strain friendships, and create tension in your personal relationships.
Being tone-deaf is not an abundant space to operate from. It’s a place of disconnect, and that’s not where growth happens. I’ve learned that if you’re not attuned to the other person’s values, needs, or pain points, your communication will fall flat. This applies to everything—business deals, partnerships, marriages, and even parenting.
The way you communicate should be grounded in understanding and awareness of what really matters to the other person. Without that, you’re missing out on the opportunity to build meaningful relationships, and ultimately, that’s what creates long-term success.
Taking 100% Responsibility for Communication.
One of the most important shifts I’ve made is taking full responsibility for my communication. It’s so easy to blame the other person when things go wrong, but that’s not how you grow. Whether it was in my real estate business or in my marriage, there were times when we were not communicating well—and I knew it. But instead of addressing it, I would get frustrated and expect the other person to figure it out. That never works.
Blaming someone else doesn’t foster growth—it just adds to the frustration. If communication isn’t working, it’s on me to either adjust how I’m approaching the conversation or have the difficult conversations I’ve been avoiding. It’s my job to take ownership of the outcome, not leave it to chance.
In both my business partnerships and my personal relationships, I’ve realized that communication is about taking agency. If something’s not working, either address it head-on or figure out an exit strategy. But staying in a space of poor communication? That’s a recipe for anxiety and failure. I have learned this the hard way. Again. I will not make that mistake again.
Your Communication Is Only as Good as Its Result.
One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned in communication comes from NLP presupposition: "Your communication is only as good as the result it creates." This principle has been a game-changer for me, especially in my relationship with my daughters.
There have been so many times where I thought I was being crystal clear, but the message just wasn’t landing. I was frustrated and wondered why they weren’t “getting it.” But I realized that my communication is measured by the outcome, not by how I think I’m coming across. If they’re not receiving my message as intended, it’s my job to adapt, not theirs.
That’s the beauty of NLP—it teaches you that the responsibility for effective communication lies with the communicator. If something’s not working, adjust until it does. This has helped me strengthen my relationships with my daughters, my clients, and my team.
Mindful Communication.
Another game-changer for me has been Thich Nhat Hanh’s teachings on mindful communication. He talks about “deep listening” and “loving speech,” which really means being fully present in the conversation and speaking from a place of empathy and kindness.
I’ve started practicing deep listening in every area of my life. Whether it’s with clients, colleagues, or family, I’m focusing on understanding, not just responding. When I listen to recognize the other person’s suffering or needs, the energy of the conversation shifts. It’s no longer just about getting my point across—it’s about creating an atmosphere where real communication can happen.
In business, this approach has transformed how I negotiate, how I handle conflict, and how I build relationships. By being more mindful in my communication, I’m not just getting things done—I’m fostering real connections that last.
Just like we need air and sunlight to survive and thrive, relationships need communication to grow and flourish. It’s a form of self-care—when we take the time to communicate with clarity and intention, we’re taking care of our relationships, our business, and ourselves.
Like the tree of life —communication represents the roots: love, trust, respect, and presence. If those roots are strong, the tree grows tall and healthy. But if we neglect the roots, the tree starts to wither. The same goes for relationships, both in business and life. Communication is at the center of it all.
Looking to Increase Sales? Work on Your Empathy, Listening, and Speaking Skills.
If you’re serious about increasing sales or growing your business, start with empathy. I know it sounds basic, but it’s often overlooked. Learn to truly understand your clients, customers, and team members. Deep listening is a skill that pays off massively—not just in terms of rapport, but in actual results.
When you listen deeply and speak from a place of understanding, you can close more deals, resolve conflicts faster, and build stronger relationships. Communication is the bridge that connects you to your clients’ needs and desires, aligning your message with what matters most to the other person.
Why Business Owners Must Master Communication.
In today’s fast-paced, highly connected world, mastering communication is non-negotiable. Here’s why I believe every business owner needs to prioritize this skill:
1. Relationships Drive Business Success: Strong, clear communication builds trust, loyalty, and long-term success. Without it, your business relationships will struggle.
2. Responsibility and Adaptability: You are 100% responsible for the results of your conversations. If you’re not getting the outcomes you want, it’s on you to adjust your approach.
3. Conflict Resolution: Poor communication is at the root of most conflicts. Mastering communication helps you resolve misunderstandings before they escalate.
4. Building Trust and Credibility: The way you communicate reflects your brand and values. Clear, transparent communication builds trust with your team, clients, and partners.
Practical Steps for Improving Communication
Here are a few steps I’m committed to on my journey to mastering communication:
1. Study and Apply NLP: The idea that your communication is measured by its results has transformed the way I approach conversations. Observe how people respond and adjust accordingly.
2. Practice Deep Listening: Follow Thich Nhat Hanh’s example—be present in every conversation. Focus on understanding, not just responding.
3. Seek Feedback: Ask how your communication is being received. This is a powerful way to improve.
4. Invest in Communication Training: Whether it’s public speaking, negotiation, or conflict resolution, there’s always room to improve your communication skills.
Final Thoughts: Communication is Leadership.
Communication isn’t just a tool—it’s the foundation of leadership. Whether you’re running a business, leading a team, or managing relationships, mastering communication will elevate every area of your life. Owning your communication means owning your outcomes. It’s how you empower yourself and those around you to thrive.
If you're ready to take your communication—and your leadership—to the next level, start by investing in your ability to connect, listen, and adapt. Your business, your relationships, and your success depend on it. If you would like to discuss further, reach out!
With love, light, and prosperity,
Jennifer Maher
Soulful Prosperity Coach
Stay connected with news and updates!
Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates from our team.
Don't worry, your information will not be shared.
We hate SPAM. We will never sell your information, for any reason.
