By Surakanti Koushika
I came across a quote on Instagram that said, “Understanding is an art. Not every person is an artist.” Though it appeared randomly while scrolling, it stayed in my mind for a long time. The more I thought about it, the more I realised how deeply it connects to communication, relationships, and the way society functions.
Communication is often reduced to the act of giving a reply, but this understanding is incomplete. Effective communication depends on whether the message has been understood, not just answered. A person may speak clearly, yet if the listener fails to grasp the context, emotion, or intent behind the words, communication breaks down, instead of bridge the gap.
In everyday interactions, people are more concerned with responding quickly rather than listening carefully. As a result, conversations become exchanges of words rather than meaningful connections. Understanding, therefore, is not an optional element of communication; it is its real value.
Understanding is complex. It requires patience, empathy, and attention. In society, many people do not care about what others are going through. But as citizens living together, we do have social responsibilities. Looking at others, understanding them, and respecting their feelings is part of that responsibility.
Imagine an introvert who finally opens up and tries to share something personal. It takes courage. Now imagine the other person does not listen properly. For example, someone says they lost a person they loved deeply. They are visibly sad. Instead of acknowledging that pain, the listener suddenly says, “Shall we go for a movie?” This does not feel good. It makes the person feel ignored, unheard, and pushed into a lower emotional space. Their voice disappears.
Understanding does not mean we always have to agree. It simply means we listen to what the other person is truly trying to say. In workplaces, classrooms, families, and even friendships, people often focus only on their own perspectives. We talk, argue, and give counters without trying to understand the feelings or experiences of others. In relationships, lack of understanding will sooner or later cause them to break.
Even in simple daily situations, understanding exists.When we switch on a fan, there is a connection between the switch and the fan. When we feel hungry and our stomach hurts, we understand the signal and eat food. Understanding helps things function smoothly.
Every human being is unique. I cannot be you, and you cannot be me. That is why understanding helps us move forward without unnecessary conflict. If an administrator or policymaker does not understand society or public needs, how can rules or policies truly benefit people?
Even in films, we judge characters because we see both sides of the story. But in real life, we often refuse to see beyond our own side. Taking a moment to think about what happened and what truly matters can change perspectives.
Understanding is also essential in learning. No matter how many times we read or listen, if we do not understand a concept, we cannot explain it or write it in an exam. In mathematics or problem-solving, the first step is always analysis—understanding the problem. Without that, solutions are impossible.
Finally, understanding oneself is the most important step. Every decision, action, and thought requires self-understanding—knowing what is right, what is wrong, and what truly matters. When a person understands themselves, a drastic change begins, not only in their own life but also in how they treat others.
Understanding may be an art, and not everyone is an artist—but it is an art worth learning.It is the one that can transform individuals and society.