Humans are remarkably adaptable and resourceful. When people are motivated to accomplish something together, they can be very ingenious in understanding and making themselves understood. If there is little motivation to make it work or there is some suspicion about others, then interpretations tend to be more negative.

In this chapter, we have covered dozens of areas for miscommunication across cultures. The list is by no means complete. However, following the solutions listed throughout this chapter will get you started on the right path.

Our existing communication skills are not to be underestimated. Every adult has fine-tuned his or her skills through thousands of interactions. Many of these contacts were with people very different from ourselves. Building on your existing communication skills, continually asking yourself for another interpretation, and listening with all of your senses will help keep you on the right path.

As mentioned earlier in the chapter, there is no silver bullet leading to great communication. It takes the practice of doing many small things differently and enjoying the dance!