I think we’ve all seen lots of videos about what the media does to change the way women look – and the repercussions of that. This five minute video show lots of examples and is extremely powerful and shows how this practice affects all of us.
4 Tips to Improve Communications to Get More of What You Want
Although we’ve been speaking since we were little, we tend to mess it up pretty regularly.
That’s actually to be expected because accurate communication is not determined by the sender but by the receiver. No matter how well you say something, if the person at the other end doesn’t hear it the way you meant it, the communication was poor.
Four things to remember to help minimize conflict and to be happier:
1) Know Your Intention
Before you communicate, ask yourself, “If all went perfectly, what would I want to happen from the result of this communication?”
For example, are you trying to impart information, get someone to change his or her behavior, express how you feel, make someone feel good (or bad)…
If you understand your intention first, it helps you craft your message better.
2) Choose Your Medium
Determine HOW you are are going to communicate what you want.
Is Your Attitude Showing?
Your attitude shows – even if you think it’s hidden.
Don’t deny it; own up to it.
Others are already aware of it – even if you never say anything.
And don’t feel bad if it’s not “happy-clappy” all the time. After all, we all have our down days. After all, someone with a “positive attitude” is simply someone whose attitude is positive more times than it’s not.
Check your attitude regularly. If it’s not serving you, do a reset.
Remember, as difficult as it might be to adjust it, it’s YOUR attitude and you can let it control you – or you can control it.
Are you controlled by “THEM”?
“Should” is the word used by the invisible committee of “THEY” to run your life.
You know what it’s like,
“I should be thinner.”“I should be a better parent.”“I should have thought of that before.”
I should. I should. I should.
If you find yourself saying “I should,” you are under the control of the THEM. THEY use the word to put you in your place and to help you feel bad about yourself for not measuring up to an unrealistic standard.
Doing the Thing!
I am ablaze! I figured out the final thing I have to do to get my act together!
It’s a new dawn; heaven has opened wide; the path is clear; I am complete! Just picturing it makes me so excited I can barely sit still!
But, here’s the thing about the thing. You can’t just jump into it, you know? I mean, after all, something as grandiose as this requires forethought and meticulous planning. That’s why I’ll be successful where others wouldn’t! See, I have a handle on the fact you just don’t launch willy-nilly hither and yon down the boulevard into something as pressing, essential, and life-altering as a thing like this can be. You better be primed, that’s what I have to say.
And I am! Nothing will hold me back! I’m getting my ducks in a row; putting my house in order; stepping one foot in front of the other; yes sirree Bob! I’m figuring out the flawless, exact method to ensure I do it just so. Don’t want to take my shot and blow it. You hear me, don’t ya’ bro?
In days gone by, I tended to rush without forethought into critical decisions.
Now, being wiser, I know first elicit support. It’s slowing me down somewhat because — well, I don’t mean to brag — but I’m a pretty popular guy, you know? I have friends on top of friends; want to make sure they’re all on board. I’ve called several, emailed buckets more; even posted it on Facebook. That’s the way to build consensus though. It’s time-consuming, but when you’re a forward-thinking guy like me, you appreciate that’s the price of success. Slow and steady; tortoise and hare; you know how it goes.
But after that, watch out, boy howdy! After you heed your peeps, you chart your actions. Those of us in the know value that if you write down the objectives, line ‘em out, set ‘em in motion; they’re far more likely to happen. Measure twice, cut once; right? So, I’ll take a few days for a secluded personal retreat where I compile the input, and write, write, write! [Read more…]