It’s important to understand the uses of heart energy vs. head energy in inter-personal communications. When I use the term, head energy, I mean data, facts – like “it’s hot today” or “let’s go to the movies”. Conversely, heart energy is about the emotions; such as, “when you come late, it makes me feel unimportant” or “I don’t like playing soccer”.
Why should we care about when to use each type of energy? When communicating with another person hence, “interpersonal”, we can include facts (head energy), but should also include emotion (heart energy) for more of an impact. Take this situation, for example: your boyfriend decides he no longer wants to date you. If he calls and says, “We’re done, bye”. That’s pretty hurtful. Rather, if he says, “we’ve enjoyed each other for these past months but I don’t feel it’s working out so it’s best if we end things.” You might still be upset but the blow is reduced. An even better approach is to meet over a beverage, chat and offer what went well and what didn’t go so well – like completing a circle so both people can come to closure. Being sensitive to the feelings of others is always the best approach when delivering any news – particularly when it’s negative.
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