Don’t Forget to Tell Your GPS: Communication

Author: Eric M. Chisem – ‘Smiles R Contagious’ by #Learnedman

Imagine this—you’re on a road trip. The playlist is set, the snacks are within reach, and the GPS has locked in your destination. Everything seems smooth until—you miss a turn. The GPS quickly jumps in to reroute you. But what happens when you make multiple detours, skip updates, or fail to communicate changes? You guessed it—confusion, delays, and sometimes, a complete breakdown in directions.

Life, relationships, and leadership work the same way. Plans change. Detours happen. The path you thought you were taking can suddenly require adjustments. That’s why communication—like updating your GPS—is non-negotiable.

The Road to Miscommunication

When we fail to communicate shifts in plans, decisions, or expectations, we leave room for confusion. Friendships and relationships can feel like being stuck at an intersection with no clear path forward. Much like that GPS stuck in “recalculating” mode, people may feel lost, unclear, or even frustrated when we don’t update them.

Think about it—your GPS doesn’t just guess where you want to go. It responds to the information you provide. Likewise, effective communication ensures that everyone around you has the right coordinates. It’s the difference between progress and unnecessary setbacks.

Leadership Lessons from a GPS

A good leader knows how to read the road ahead and adjust accordingly. That’s why Dr. Valerie Wanza’s quote, “Be Bold, On Their Behalf,” speaks volumes. Being bold means confidently communicating expectations, even when the path changes. Whether leading a team, guiding a friend, or managing personal growth, clarity and consistency are essential.

Another great reminder comes from the phrase “Read and Lead.” Leaders must continuously read the signs—both literal and figurative—and lead others through the detours with purpose. Just like a GPS needs updated maps to function properly, leaders need updated information to make informed decisions. “Read and Lead” is also a well known quote by Dr. Valerie Wanza.

What Happens When Communication Breaks Down?

Let’s be honest—GPS systems aren’t perfect. Sometimes, they glitch, freeze, or send you in circles. In life, communication hiccups happen too. But what makes the difference is whether you address the breakdown or ignore it.

When signals get crossed:

• Pause and re-center. Just like restarting a GPS, take time to clarify your thoughts before responding.

• Ask for directions. If there’s confusion, don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek input.

.Recalculate and move forward. Fix the error, but don’t stay stuck in it. Growth means continuing the journey with better insight.

Final Thoughts: Update Your GPS!

Communication isn’t just about speaking—it’s about ensuring the message is heard, understood, and acted upon. Much like your GPS won’t reroute without your input, people can’t adjust to your changes if you don’t share them.

So, whether you’re navigating personal relationships, professional decisions, or leadership responsibilities, don’t forget to tell your GPS plans have changed. Be clear, be bold, and be consistent. After all, you’re the driver. Lead with confidence.

And remember—when the journey gets tough, a smile and a positive attitude can be just as contagious as great directions.

Eric M. Chisem

Smiles R Contagious – #Learnedman