True Communication

Cathy Shuter is a wellbeing-focused writer and coach with a background in special education. She has published over thirty books and founded Cathy’s Wellbeing Club, a community-driven initiative promoting connection, creativity, and compassion. Her vision is to open an inclusive seaside wellbeing center offering workshops, arts, coaching, and a vegetarian café. Learn more at www.cathyswellbeingclub.co.uk and www.trustylifecoaching.co.uk.

We are living in times of great change and uncertainty. During seasons like this, it becomes more important than ever to understand one another truly.

Human beings thrive when we feel supported and cared for—and one of the most important aspects of connection is communication. But what does that really mean? And how can we communicate in ways that bring us closer together instead of pushing us apart?

Ask yourself:

  • How do you like to communicate?
  • Do you prefer face-to-face conversations, or do you feel more at ease online?
  • How do you know when someone is really listening to you?
  • How do you like to express yourself—through writing, art, conversation, or something else entirely?

We each have our own style. Allowing ourselves the freedom to express our true feelings—however that looks—is one of the most liberating and healing things we can do.

Personally, I love to communicate through writing. It gives me time to reflect, to shape my thoughts, and to share something that I hope uplifts and encourages others. I read constantly, soaking up wisdom from others’ words, and I’m always inspired to pass on what I learn.

Over the past ten years, I’ve written more than thirty books. My most recent book, entitled Together–Let’s Find Ways to Happier Days, brings together many of the themes that have emerged from this journey. Writing and publishing have become a powerful way for me to communicate ideas in an affordable and accessible format.

Cathy Shuter - Awakened Magazine

Of course, not everyone prefers the written word. Some people learn best through listening—whether through audiobooks, conversations, or podcasts. The spoken word holds incredible power. That’s why it’s important for us to explore multiple ways to share our messages, making space for all voices and learning styles.

It’s equally important to remember that communication is a two-way street. We speak—and we listen. Truly listening means being present. It means not interrupting. It means not preparing our response before the other person has finished. When someone listens deeply, we feel heard, seen, and validated.

Often, when we talk about our struggles, we’re not seeking advice—we just want someone to understand. Simply being heard can be incredibly healing.

And sometimes, words aren’t enough. People who process the world differently may need visual support, physical cues, or more time. Real communication isn’t just about getting our message across—it’s about ensuring it lands with love and clarity.

We can communicate in so many ways—through music, dance, poetry, painting, and silence. Our actions often speak louder than our words. They reveal our true intentions. They show others—especially our children—what we value.

So, let us all take a moment to ask:
Are we communicating in a way that others can receive?
Are we making space to truly listen?

When we do, we create the kind of connection that carries us through even the most uncertain times.

TAKE ACTION: If you would like to find ways to start feeling happier, check out Cathy’s latest book entitled Together–Let’s Find Ways To Happier Days!: Cloud Thoughts.

"We each have our own style. Allowing ourselves the freedom to express our true feelings—however that looks—is one of the most liberating and healing things we can do."

Cathy Shuter is a wellbeing-focused writer and coach with a background in special education. She has published over thirty books and founded Cathy’s Wellbeing Club, a community-driven initiative promoting connection, creativity, and compassion. Her vision is to open an inclusive seaside wellbeing center offering workshops, arts, coaching, and a vegetarian café.

Read more from Cathy Shuter or connect with her on Substack, Facebook (Trusty Life Coaching, Cathy Shuter, and Cathy Shuter), Instagram, or her websites (www.cathyswellbeingclub.co.uk and www.trustylifecoaching.co.uk).

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