“To effectively communicate, we must realise that we are all different in the way we perceive the world and use this understanding as a guide to our communication with others.“
– Tony Robbins
IF you’ve spent any time scrolling through social media lately, you’ve probably come across the term “67”. It’s interesting to see how people are talking about it – some using it casually, others trying to explain what it means. Even in social settings, I’ve noticed new employees tossing it around as if it’s always been part of everyday conversation.
In another recent conversation, a friend told me she had texted her teenage son to ask when he’d be home for dinner. His reply was just one word: “K”. She spent the next hour wondering if he was annoyed. Later, he walked in cheerfully, completely unaware that his “K” had set off a spiral of motherly overthinking.
We eventually laughed about it, but it also shows how easily conversations can stumble – not because we disagree, but because we simply communicate differently.
In today’s world, every generation has its own communication style, whether at home, in the workplace, or in social settings. Those who grew up writing letters or making long phone calls value tone, emotion, and patience, whereas younger generations, who grew up on instant messages, voice notes, and video calls, tend to value speed and brevity.
To the older generation, a short “OK” might sound cold. To the younger, it simply means efficiency. However, when messages are interpreted differently, they can create unintended misunderstandings. A parent might feel a child is being curt; a young employee might feel an older boss is being long-winded. Truthfully, neither style is wrong. Both are trying to connect, just through different rhythms and different “languages” of communication.
Regardless of how communication is delivered, I would have to admit and acknowledge that each generation brings something valuable to the conversation.
Older ones offer depth with the ability to read tone, to listen without multitasking, and to value pauses. On the other hand, younger ones bring clarity through quick thinking, adaptability, and the knack for saying a lot in a few words.
So instead of feeling frustrated by our differences in the style of communication, maybe we can ask: What can we learn from the way we each communicate?
With our communication culture and style constantly evolving across generations, it’s essential to bridge the gap through listening – listening to understand, and not simply to respond.
When we pause to hear what someone truly says, we begin to notice the intent behind their words. A lengthy explanation might come from care. A brief text might come from trust that no extra words are needed.
And sometimes, the problem isn’t the message – it’s the channel. For some, a phone call means “I care”. For others, a simple text is thoughtful enough. For my parents, a daily five-minute call can make their whole day, while a short message in the siblings’ group chat might be enough to make my sister smile.
Ultimately, making the effort to reach across different preferences helps keep relationships warm. And what better way to stay connected to one another than here in Malaysia, where communication is already a colourful mix – English, Malay, Mandarin, dialects, and the occasional “lah” or “mah” thrown in for flavour. Add generational habits on top of that, and we have a recipe for some pretty interesting exchanges.
And that’s what makes our conversations rich. When we listen across both culture and generations, we gain a wider and richer perspective, and a little more compassion too.
In the end, bridging generation gaps isn’t about perfect understanding. It’s about connection.
We don’t have to always “get” each other. We just have to keep trying, keep talking, keep listening, and keep showing up for the people who matter. Because every sincere attempt to understand, even if awkward or imperfect, is a small bridge built between hearts.
And that, truly, is where real communication begins. So this weekend, seize the chance to connect with your children, parents, and grandparents, and see how the conversation flows freely and meaningfully. Happy weekend!
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune. The writer can be reached at Shirley.suat@gmail.com.
