Here at Metzler Home Builders, we meet with a lot of people. Getting to know new people is continual. Each one communicates in their own way with their unique style. While words are not the only way to communicate, they are fundamental to how we relate to and understand each other. It is one of the primary skills we teach young children. Even in the second half of my life, I hope to expand my vocabulary continually.
Imagine with me for a moment trying to describe the space you live in without using the following words: floor, wall, roof, window, door, kitchen, bath, table, or chair. Try describing a hike without: path, trail, tree, plant, brown, green, or blue. Having words to articulate the meaning we intend is key to allowing others to understand our ideas.
The same is true as we attempt to express our feelings. The more nuance we can share about how we feel, the more others can understand us and respond appropriately. For example, while knowing that you are surprised is helpful, hearing you say you’re excited or shocked provides specific meaning to your surprise. For true understanding, both the person sharing and the person listening must understand the words being used. This is referred to as emotional intelligence.
Stereotypes always fall short, but I’ll use one here. Our society typically allows more freedom of emotional expression to women and men are generally cultured to stifle emotion. This trickles into other areas of our lives. When was the last time you heard a man in your life describe something blue as sapphire or ocean blue?
Emotional intelligence is as vital to us at Metzler Home Builders as building and color intelligence. When you tell us you want your home to be your “happy” place, we want to truly understand. Does “happy” mean a space where you feel content and joyful, or is it a space where you feel optimistic and creative? Is it a peaceful setting where you feel loved? These nuances are important to us as we work together to design and construct houses that you can call home.
Post by: Tim Zehr