Cheap and Great
Several times, I’ve received flyers in my mailbox for a business that advertises itself as “cheap and great.” Every time I read those two descriptors, I chuckle, because they send a mixed message. Perhaps the business owner doesn’t realize the word “cheap” also means of inferior quality. The word “affordable” substituted for “cheap” would make more sense. Then, the message would be consistent, promoting two positive qualities.
As I tossed the most recent flyer in the trash, I thought about times when we send mixed messages, often without realizing it. Mixed messages are statements that contradict each other, or words and body language that don’t jibe.
Following are thoughts on mixed messages:
Insincerity
If you’ve ever had someone compliment you, but in an insincere tone of voice, or with a stony facial expression, you are familiar with a mixed message. When words and body language don’t fit together, insincerity is present. It would be better to not receive the compliment than to have it emanate from insincere lips.
Inconsistency
An inconsistent pattern of interaction also sends a mixed message. If someone is kind and attentive in one encounter, only to ignore you the next time you see them, you are the recipient of a mixed message. Inconsistency spawns distrust.
I once had a friend who would make plans with me, and then cancel at the last minute. After this happened repeatedly, I got the message that either she had an opportunity she considered better, or she didn’t really want to spend time with me. Eventually, the friendship fizzled out because I couldn’t trust her to follow through.
Lack of Clarity
The defining quality of a mixed message is lack of clarity. Our culture has transitioned to forms of communication that involve using lots of words to say nothing of substance. Perhaps some believe many words makes them sound intelligent. However, most of the time verbosity results in a mixed message or no message at all.
Spiritually, diverging words and actions send a mixed message, one that hampers our witness and slows forward motion. Our behavior speaks more loudly than the professions of our mouths, and when actions don’t mirror words we send an unclear message. In all things, let words and deeds be clear, consistent, and sincere.
In what ways are you sending mixed messages?
“Do I plan in a self-serving way like a worldly man, ready to say, “Yes, yes” and “No, no” [at the same time]? But [as surely as] God is faithful and means what He says, our message to you is not “Yes” and “No” [at the same time]. For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us, by me, Silvanus, and Timothy, was not “Yes” and “No,” but has proved to be “Yes” in Him [true and faithful, the divine “Yes” affirming God’s promises]” (2 Corinthians 1:17-18 AMP).
©CandyArrington
Candy Arrington is an award-winning writer, blogger, and speaker. She often writes on tough topics with a focus on moving through, and beyond, difficult life circumstances. Candy has written hundreds of articles, stories, and devotions published by numerous outlets including: Inspiration.org, Arisedaily.com, CBN.com, Healthgrades.com, Care.com, Focus on the Family, NextAvenue.org, CountryLiving.com, and Writer’s Digest. Candy’s books include Life on Pause: Learning to Wait Well (Bold Vision Books), When Your Aging Parent Needs Care (Harvest House), and AFTERSHOCK: Help, Hope, and Healing in the Wake of Suicide (B&H Publishing Group).
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