We can gauge the relationship we have with someone by the type of conversations we have with that person. The word always creates connection, but this can be of different levels, as we will see in this article.
Last update: January 10, 2022
There are different types of conversations, some more rewarding than others. The exchange of words with someone often leaves nothing but the pale satisfaction of an unnecessary and occasional contact. Other times, this encounter with the other through the word renews us and gives us much more than the memory of a good moment.
It's clear that Different situations and relationships also generate different types of conversations. Having a routine mid-morning meeting with a co-worker isn't like sitting down with an old friend for coffee. Nor is a family conversation the same as the one we may have with the doctor or psychologist.
There would be a thousand ways to classify conversation types. However, an easy way to do this is based on the topics covered. This aspect marks a big difference between one communication and another. From that point of view, we find five types, as we will see below.
“The most fruitful and natural exercise of our spirit is, in my opinion, conversation. I find his practice sweeter than any other activity in our life ”.
-Michel de Montaigne-
5 types of conversation
1. Daily topics
One of the most common types of conversation, the he sustains himself on a daily basis with whoever he meets. The topics to be covered are traffic, weather, pollution or the like.
These conversations are intended to encourage or create the right atmosphere for social contact with the people around us. Of course they don't make a profound contribution to our lives, but they are valuable to the extent that they help build a fundamental bond between two or more people.
2. Conversations about others
They happen between two people who know each other and have a certain level of trust in each other. One can speak of others in two different ways, in principle. It is possible that there is a common interest in someone who is not present and this can be positive or negative.
Similarly, we sometimes talk about other people who don't know each other directly, such as a singer, a writer, a celebrity, etc.
This type of conversation does not usually strengthen the bond between two people. Perhaps the complicity increases or not, but not more.
3. Types of conversation: about ideas
Among the different types of conversation this usually lends itself to monologue. In most cases, each person involved wants to make his or her thoughts known and give relevance to their ideas, but little listens to those of others.
Sometimes it is possible to have a fruitful exchange of views, but it is not frequent. The recording of these conversations is mainly mental and very often it helps to mark points of contrast, rather than meeting spaces. The ego is often very present in these types of communication.
4. About feelings
A far greater degree of intimacy is required in this case than in other types of conversations. You only talk about feelings with someone you trust enough and with whom you have already established an important bond. Normally, these are very rewarding exchanges.
Talking about how we are and noticing that someone is listening to us is a source of great satisfaction. Many times that's all it takes to get through a bad time or feel better. The so-called "let off steam", like getting a shot of oxygen when it's in short supply.
5. Types of conversation: sharing feelings
This is the most intimate level that can be reached in a conversation. Not only does one expose one's emotional universe, but there is also an interest in listening to the other and understanding him. It is a two-way exercise typical of deeper and healthier relationships.
Thanks to these conversations, lasting and strong relationships of any kind are established. Not only do they offer great satisfaction, but they make you feel less alone and validated.
Conclusions
The different types of conversation each have their own raison d'être and a different contribution. The ideal would be to entertain them all.
We invite you to value and take care of those bonds that allow you to have deep and sincere conversations that are never in vain.
