Introducing the Communication Box, a recent project focused on enhancing communication between individuals. This innovative tool is designed to improve dialogue and understanding between two people. With the Communication Box, individuals can strengthen their connections and foster better communication.

Guidelines

With the goal of meaningful and respectful interaction, consider using these guidelines:
(Designed for one-on-one interactions)

Respect for Interpretation: Each person’s interpretation of the colors and sizes of the craft pieces is personal. Encourage the understanding that individuals may perceive the meanings differently.
Non-Judgmental Environment: Establish a rule that all expressions and responses to the selected pieces should be met with an open and non-judgmental attitude.

Sharing is Voluntary: Emphasize that sharing thoughts or feelings prompted by the pieces are completely voluntary. Each person should feel comfortable expressing or not expressing their thoughts. Using “I” or “I feel” statements are ideal.

Privacy and Confidentiality: Stress the importance of respect for privacy. What is shared while communicating should be kept confidential and not discussed with others without mutual consent.
Active Listening: Encourage active listening and genuine engagement when the pieces are used for communication. Each person should have the opportunity to express themselves without interruption or distraction.


How it Works

Set your Interactive Communication Box in a location visible to both people.
One person starts by putting a note in the box for the other person to read.
Examples: “I really want to take a year off college”; “When you said I was being lazy, that hurt my feelings”; “I’d like to spend more time with you”
These are only examples. What is triggering in a relationship is unique to that relationship. Therefore, it could be anything that simply is difficult to discuss.
The other person reads the note and then chooses which piece to use and places it in the box. The green piece means “I’m ready to discuss this”. The yellow piece means “I want to discuss this; I just need a little more time before we do”. The red piece means “I’m not ready to discuss this at this time”.
If both people are “green”, then one person can approach the other to find a time to talk.
If the response is “yellow”, then check the box periodically to see if the other person changed it to green or red. This topic is still pending.
If the response is “red”, then let that be for a while. Perhaps, try a different starting question that is easier to digest. If the red is unchanged, it may just be a topic that requires support from a third party. A friend, family, a therapist or anyone that you both deem appropriate.
The other colored pieces are for you to use as you would like. Create your own love language!