You’ve Got Charm!
Good communicators go a long way
Have you ever noticed that some people in your life communicate better than others? Have you ever been chastised for failing to listen, talking too much, or being overly sensitive? It’s difficult to admit when we need to improve, but there’s always space for growth. And the better you are at communicating, the happier and smoother your relationships — and your life — will be.
The truth is if you want to develop a trusting and successful connection with someone — whether your spouse, coworker, child, or neighbor — it is extremely essential that your communication with them reflect four approaches:
1. Listen quickly. Have you ever noticed how easy it is to get distracted when someone is talking? You start thinking about something similar that happened to you and want to share, or you consider what you want to say next. Refrain from acting on impulse. Practice listening without interfering.
2. Speak slowly and deliberately. Consider an instance during the recent week when you spoke too hastily. Perhaps you wish you had said it differently or not at all. Emotions are frequently to blame, whether you’re enthusiastic and make a promise you can’t keep, or angry and say things you later regret. Bite your tongue and take some time to gather your thoughts.
