Communication

Sorry to disappoint you gang, but I didn't go to a show this weekend.

I've been taking some time the last few months to make some changes in my life, and I've been noticing how important one thing really is: communication. Here's some tips I've learned for effective communication:

1. Say what you need to say. This can be difficult at times, especially if the conversation is about something unpleasant, but I'd rather be honest and speak the truth then feel like I have to lie or hold things in. I've found that can only make things worse. People respect honesty, and words that come from the heart. Don't let anyone intimidate you, either: I figure, if I can talk to rockstars, I can talk to anyone! After all, we're all human beings made of the same genetic material occupying the same planet. No one is any better or any worse than anyone else.

2. Follow up. This has beneficial to me when I've been looking for new jobs, and it has gotten me a few interviews. It keeps you in the interviewers' minds and lets them know that you take them seriously. Make sure to say "thank you" as well, especially after an interview, meeting or when someone has done something nice for you. People need to know that their efforts are appreciated.

3. Make time, not excuses. I know life is busy, but making a brief phone call or sending a text, even if it's just to say hello, takes just a few seconds. No matter if it's once an hour, once a week, once a month or once a year, taking a little time to say "hello" to a family member or friend might just be the highlight of their day!

4. Keep the communication lines open. This can be difficult when life is pulling you in more directions than a Stretch Armstrong toy, or when you're trying to talk to people who don't always respond or might not feel like talking at the time. Communication is so important in any relationship: romantic, family, friendships, classmates, coworkers, group affiliations, etc. All of these relationships require regular two-way communication to be successful.

5. Listen. This is a key component of any conversation. Picking up on a person's tone, inflection, the words they say and even the pauses between sentences can be very important. Devote the time that you're not speaking in a conversation to actively listening to what the other person says and how they say it, so that you can respond appropriately. Empathize and apologize when you need to.

Well, that's all I have for now - thank you for listening. Be back bloggin' at ya in February! Until then, have a great week, everyone!