Assess The Importance Of Self-Awareness In Interpersonal Communication

Figure 8. Competencies needed by Peace-builders (Figure adapted from Arigatou International, 2008)

4.1 Self-awareness
Peaceful co-existence is based on healthy interpersonal relationships which can only be achieved through understanding who we are and how we operate in relationships. Both educators and learners possess unique characteristics/personality that are complex and influence their interaction with one another. Self- awareness entails a conscious and genuine attempt to explore and improve the knowledge of one’s own character, feelings, motives, and desires. Chapter two of this guide provides an example of how we can enhance self -awareness by understanding our identity and its effect on our interaction with others. Learners need to be aware of their strengths, weaknesses, aspirations and social support systems to facilitate conscious decision making to act for peace and non-violence. 4.2 Interpersonal communication skills
Interpersonal communication is the verbal and nonverbal interaction between two or more people. This relatively simple definition implies a variety of characteristics. Our personal success and happiness depend largely on our effectiveness as interpersonal communicators. Close friendships are made, maintained, and sometimes

Our past as well as recent history is hardly a ground for optimism. Relations among different cultural groups—from the earliest times until today— often lead to disharmony. Globally, in all the armed conflicts in the world between 2006 and 2016, citizens have organized to fight against their own governments (e.g. Libya, Tunisia, Egypt and many more). Without peace, we have no future! Intercultural communication, where different cultural groups communicate peacefully with one another, is a foundation for peace in the Horn of Africa and surrounding