Sometimes we keep explaining ourselves because we think the other person doesn't understand. But what happens when they understand perfectly—and simply disagree? Learning the difference between being understood and being agreed with can change the way you communicate, make decisions, and trust your own voice.

We all want to feel known without having to explain ourselves. But when does wanting someone to notice become expecting them to read our minds? Here's what can change when we stop testing whether people can guess what we need and give them the opportunity to actually know us.