The Power of Precise Language: What Blindness Can Teach Us About Clear Communication

Imagine you’re trying to guide someone across a busy street. You wouldn’t just say, “Go that way.” You’d say, “Take three steps forward, then turn left.” Now imagine the person you’re guiding can’t see. Suddenly, vague instructions aren’t just unhelpful. They’re dangerous.

That’s exactly what Christopher Venter, a travel writer and adventurer who lost his sight during an epic scooter journey, learned about communication. And it’s a lesson many of us, especially those navigating high-stakes conversations at work, could learn from too.

Why vague language fails

In my conversation with Christopher on my podcast, he shared how even the well-meaning people in his life would say things like, “Just over there,” or “Move a bit that way.” Helpful? Not at all. When you can’t rely on visual cues, you need specificity. You need someone to say, “Take two steps forward,” or “The glass is to your right.”

This isn’t just a blindness thing. This is a clarity thing.

How often in your workplace have you:

  • Left a meeting unsure of what was actually decided?
  • Misunderstood a colleague because they said, “Let’s touch base later” instead of “Can we chat at 3pm?”
  • Nodded in agreement even though you weren’t 100% sure what the other person meant?

Vagueness creates confusion. Precision builds trust.

What this means for self-conscious communicators

Many of my clients struggle with freezing in meetings, avoiding confrontation, or overthinking every word they say (especially women navigating leadership in high-pressure environments). Often, they hold back out of fear of saying the wrong thing.

But here’s what Christopher’s story reminds us: it’s not about getting the perfect words. It’s about getting the clear ones.

Instead of saying, “I think we should maybe consider other options,” try:

  • “I’d like to propose an alternative idea.”
  • “I’m not comfortable with this timeline. Can we extend it?”
  • “I hear what you’re saying, and I’d like to add another perspective.”

The more precise you are, the more confident you’ll feel, and sound.

The gift of clarity

When we strip away our reliance on visual shorthand (that nod, a gesture, a vague “this way”) we’re left with our words. And that’s a good thing. Because our words have power. They can direct, connect, support, and guide. But only if we choose them with intention.

Christopher may have lost his sight, but he gained a deeper understanding of how words shape our experience of the world. And for those of us still navigating our way to confident communication, that insight is gold.

So next time you speak, ask yourself: Is this clear? Or am I assuming they can read between the lines?

Because in communication, as in life, clarity isn’t just kind. It’s courageous.

 

Want to practise clear, courageous communication in real conversations? Book a Readiness Session with me and let’s explore how you can find your voice and use it with confidence.