Women In Training Programs
The following text was copied from "O" The Oprah Magazine:
The Thrill of Finding Your Own Voice - How to say hard things;
scripts for life's trickier moments
"Words are, of
course, the most powerful drug used by mankind."
Quote by: Rudyard Kipling, English author
We have so many
ways to communicate: words, gestures, emotions, behavior, even the
clothes we wear, the meals we serve, etc. Does your communication
style bring you the response you what in some areas of your life, but not in
others? Consider the following:
1. Do you say what you mean, or do you hid behind humor or
innuendo? How could you be more assertive or self-revealing in your
conversations?
2. Do you speak up at work and in social settings? Can you tell
a joke? Draw out others? Which public-speaking skills might you
want to improve?
3. Are you as comfortable writing as you are speaking? If not,
would polishing your writing skills give you more confidence.?
4. Can you read body language,
facial expressions, and other subtle cues? Do others read you easily,
or are you often misunderstood?
It is believed that so many of
our frustrations could be avoided if we'd get brave enough to handle
difficult conversations honestly, beginning with learning when to say
no. It's understandable that so many women will do anything to avoid a
confrontation, because we don't want to hurt anyone's feelings.
Be curious about the other person's point of view. What does she know,
or believe, that makes her see the world differently from you? When
someone is angry, sit still and listen with your whole being. Be aware
of the other person, the atmosphere in the room. Don't do anything,
just let kindness arise naturally. Good communicators tell the
truth. Notice when you lie, fib, hedge, exaggerate, or mislead, even
with the best of intentions; "right speech" is honest, direct, but
never cruel.
Scared to speak up? Toastmasters International can help you improve
your public speaking skills. See www.toastmasters.org
for information on the group and speakers' tips.
"Where words are
restrained, the eyes often talk a great deal."
Quote by: Samuel Richardson, English novelist
"O" The
Oprah Magazine
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