Introspection explores access one has to one mental state of mind.

Psychologist Wilhelm Wundt developed

the technique. His studies developing the technique included helping others
through self-observation of their
thoughts. He trained people to analyze context within personal opinions
objectively. The concept features a
common element people do, which is examining their ideas.
In modern terms, the concept helps people know themselves by uncovering
values deep within and deciding
how to use them. It is allowing you to become an expert on your emotions
with professional guidance.
Research on the concept shows evidence it encourages people to make better
decisions in life, leading to
fulfillment and a sense of purpose. Even when dealing with uncertainty,
techniques practiced and applied to
ensure that you stay on track to meet personal goals.
Communication is actually one of the skills layered one upon another. Listening
effectively, expressing yourself, focus,
reflection, clarity… and the list can go on and on.
Among the most important is our ability to filter the information we receive
and reflect on this. Our internal filters decide what
we pay attention to and what we ignore when communicating with others.
What we pay attention to can fuel our
understanding of more than just the message we are getting. It also affects our
understanding of the relationship.
Our skill at filtering information can change depending on what is going on
around us or our distractions. These can come in
many forms such as:
• emotional state
• outward distractions such as noise, kids, phone calls
• being tired
• previous negative or positive experience with the person
• nerves (ie with boss or a crush)
• bad mood or a really good mood
• your beliefs
• expectations of the person or the situation
• difference in personal style (some are bold, shy, withdrawn or in your face)
• self-protection mode (fear, rejection)
• situational (at work, late at night)
• message medium (email, phone, letters)
And it goes on and on. You can see how we can so easily get our messages
distorted when communicating with someone.
The point is there is no way to eliminate these distractions or filters - the key is
to be aware of them. Introspection is often
ignored when people talk about what matters in communication but, trust me,
at the most basic level introspection really
matters. Communication is tough enough without allowing our filters to take
us unawares and add to the difficulty level. Know
yourself, where you are at and reflect on what messages you are receiving. Be
aware of your filters and stand in the truth of
them. If you are feeling in a bad mood and just not in a place to focus; ask the
person trying to talk to you to give you a couple
of minutes and tell them why. You own your filter; it doesn’t own you.