“Knowing when to say something is as important as knowing what or what not to say. You may have the perfect message, but it can be negated by imperfect timing.”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“Being “out of sync” can be exasperating. Seek to synchronize to increase your chances for success and positive outcomes. Just because your timing is good for you does not mean it is a good time for another person.”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“Finding the right time is like discovering a social portal which opens a gate for others to receive your message and "get you." You only get one chance to make a first impression and if the gate begins to close, you may never get another opportunity to walk through it. Watch for the openings and synchronize your movements with your intended recipient.”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“All in Good Time. The ancient Buddhist saying shares, “When the student is ready, the master will appear.” When the timing is right, lessons are learned and miracles can happen. However, when the timing is “out of sync,” even the best of intentions can be met with resistance.”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“Eloquent speakers, communication experts, seasoned actors, and musicians all understand the transforming power of the pause. They know all too well that strategic silence and a well-placed whisper can speak louder than words in delivering a memorable presentation. It captures people's attention . . . creating eager anticipation for your next words.”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“I love to read. However, there have been times when certain books did not resonate with me because the timing was off kilter. Their lessons fell flat because their messages were not pertinent, relevant, or interesting to me at the time. Then, when I would re-read the same book years later, it could rock my world and change my life for the better. The message was more in alignment with where I was at that moment in time. With most anything, just because your timing may not be good now, does not mean it won’t be better later.”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“5 Reasons to Develop the Power of the Pause. It . . .
1. encourages your communication partner to express their thoughts without interruption.
2. provides a moment of silence to calm incessant talking.
3. allows time for your brain to catch up with our mouth.
4. provides your listener with space to process your message.
5. highlights important points for your message to have more impact.”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“Getting into Sync
People feel the most comfortable with and gravitate more quickly to the people with whom they are the most alike. You will receive your best results by seeking first to understand and then to adjust your energy, movements, posture, words, gestures, and behaviors to synchronize with theirs. This alignment will build a sense of rapport and commonality which will help your conversations progress smoothly and more successfully.”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“Free Flowing Dialogue
“Have you ever been engaged in a conversation which was so dynamic that you were both firing on all cylinders, in perfect harmony and at warp speed?”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“The Rhythm of Relationships
It’s not a mystery that there are certain people with whom we "click" and others with whom we don’t. In the movie, Forrest Gump, Forrest proclaimed that he and Jenny got along like "peas and carrots." I once heard Tony Robbins say that if you are with the right person, a relationship does not take a lot of work. When relationships are in rhythm, everything is made easier.”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“Social synchronicity will help you stay open-minded regarding coincidence and serendipity. It is worth considering whether people are showing up in your life for a purpose or by accident.”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“ASK YOURSELF:
• Have you pondered a question and someone ironically shows up with the answers?
• Have you ever been thinking of a friend and within moments they mysteriously call or come by?
• How many times have you seen a meaningful relationship start because the right people were in the right place at the right time for the right opportunity?”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“These "God Winks" may be an answer to prayer, a warning to change course, or a reward for doing things right. Become mindful and aware of how these cosmic puzzle pieces come together to enrich your life and your relationships. It is both affirming and entertaining to consider. Be open and grateful.”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“Bull in a China Shop
The metaphor “bull in a china shop” appropriately describes how a clumsy (or socially awkward) person can sometimes find themselves in a quite delicate position. Have you ever been in a social situation where it was prudent to bite your tongue, smile and nod, choose your words carefully, or remain silent all together? One in which, if you didn’t—it could cause damage?”
“You can be a bull. And you can be in the china shop. But, just don’t break anything! Even the biggest, baddest, most boorish bull can skate carefully through a china shop with dignity and grace if he exercises mindfulness and consideration.”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“Delicious Dialogue
“We’ve all known the proverbial conversation hog who dominates a discussion and pays little notice to another person’s input. They’re so busy talking about themselves, we can barely slide a word in edgewise. Don’t be that guy!”
“An engaging conversation is a two-way street. Learn to delight in dialogue to ensure mutual respect and consideration.”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“We’ve all known the proverbial conversation hog who dominates a discussion and pays little notice to another person’s input. They’re so busy talking about themselves, we can barely slide a word in edgewise. Don’t be that guy!”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“An engaging conversation is a two-way street. Learn to delight in dialogue to ensure mutual respect and consideration.”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“Mindful Awareness.
Be fully involved in the moment—right now! Developing this ability instills a sixth sense for navigating connections. Be intentional and thoughtful; listen and care.”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“Conversation Starters.
Your first words will not only shape your first impression, but they can create amazing connections, lead you to your dream job, or help you discover a new best friend.”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“Active Listening.
Practice this skill. You enhance communication; this confirms that the message another conveys is well received and thoroughly understood. You get it!”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“Voice Value. Your voice makes a first impression. Is your voice coming across as smart, friendly, and positive or ignorant, rude, and negative? The way you deliver the words is your “vocal image.”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“Use Names.
Calling a person by name makes him/her feel recognized, appreciated, and special. It shows respect and that you are genuinely interested in making a connection. You make them feel remembered!”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“Wise with Your Words.
Speak words that support your highest good. Are your thoughts building you up or tearing you down? Notice the quality of your words—your best first impressions ride on them.”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“Being 100 percent in the moment and focusing on the person you’re with is one of the finest compliments you can offer. One of the most respectful and considerate things you can do for another is to truly be with them in the here and now.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Just be Nice. Nice—this little word has a big meaning. Use it generously. Being nice helps people feel emotionally safe, allowing for more authentic, trusting, and happy interactions.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Be Brave. Bravery takes fortitude—put yourself on the line, even if you risk failing, falling, being embarrassed, or looking stupid—if being brave were easy, more people would be. Just try it!”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Take the Initiative. Be proactive. If you want to rock your relationship results, it is going to take action, effort, initiative, and choosing to get in the game—so, step up, step out, and show up!”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“When you begin conversations with confidence and listen attentively, you will become more flexible and adaptable in most any situation.”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“When you are "off somewhere else" people notice. Have you found yourself in conversations in which you’re so concerned about what you are going to say next, that you don’t even hear what the other person is saying? Guilty as charged, right?”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“A lack of engagement sends the message that you may not care, are not interested, are too busy, or that the other person does not matter to you. Even though this is rarely your intention, it can happen when you’re not being mindful and deliberate to connect in the moment.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Employee Engagement
“Employee Engagement” has become a very hot topic in recent years. The escalating statistics for disengagement are alarming. In 2015, the Gallup Polls’ “The State of the American Workforce” survey found that only 32.5 percent of the U.S. Workforce is engaged and committed where they work, and 54 percent say they would consider leaving their companies if they could receive a 20 percent raise elsewhere. Disengagement not only lowers performance, morale, and productivity, but it’s costing employers billions of dollars a year. It's a growing problem, which has many companies baffled.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Why is this disengagement epidemic becoming the new norm? A few reasons I have witnessed in speaking with companies across the country include . . .
• Information overload
• Distractions
• Stress/overwhelmed
• Apathy/detachment
• Short attention span
• Fear, worry, anxiety
• Rapidly changing technology
• Entitlement
• Poor leadership
• Preoccupation
• Social media
• Interruptions
• Multitasking
• Budget cuts
• Exhaustion
• Boredom
• Conflict
• Social insecurity
• Lack of longevity
These challenges not only create separation and work dysfunction, but we are seeing it happen in relationships and personal interactions.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“When you are fully present and engaged in your workplace, you will demonstrate that you care about the success of your organization, are a team player, have a can-do attitude, and will go the extra mile to fulfill and exceed expectations.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“These qualities make a great impression on your boss, your teams, and your customers. You will be more respected, noticed, and appreciated in the process.
As your own "CEO of Self," projecting this positive level of engagement furthers your own personal reputation and interests for healthy communication, networking, and positive first impressions. An added bonus is that YOU will receive great benefits from putting forth this type of effort. Whether it be self-esteem, new training, cooperation, experience, or a raise or bonus, the rewards are extensive and many.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“11 Ways to Be More Engaged
1. Care about others.
2. Be 100 percent in the moment.
3. Keep focus on the person you are serving.
4. Try to get involved, engaged, and interactive.
5. Show interest in what matters to other people by listening, acknowledging, and responding.
6. Arrive in the moment anticipating creating a valuable interaction for yourself and others.
7. Move towards the things that inspire you and provide a sense of joy and connection.
8. Reconnect with the essence of yourself and be grounded in that essential relationship.
9. Maintain eye contact and deliver the non-verbal cues that you are fully with the other person.
10. Limit distractions— close the door, silence your phone, hold calls, put tasks aside, etc.
11. Show up to the moment being your best and giving your best.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Manners Matter. Courteous behavior is the hallmark of healthy relations and human interaction. Manners ensure you will be more respected, admired, and appreciated. Thank you!”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Polish the Gold. Be an optimist; look for the best in others, the best in situations, and focus on what is working rather than what is not. It's golden!”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Service Beyond Self. Value others; have a heart of service and generosity. Rise above self-interest. Ask what you can do for others, not what they can do for you.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Mix, Mingle, Glow. Stretch beyond your own comfort zone to speak with, sit with, and start conversations with people whom you do not know. Take the initiative to help other people capture the spotlight and shine.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Since we are all unique and individual, being cognizant of different personality styles will help you better recognize where others are coming from to minimize barriers, build trust, and catapult your newfound communication skills into meaningful connections. The savvy socializer knows this all.”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“Communicating negatively (gossiping, bragging, bullying, and criticizing) can be disastrous to your reputation, cause you to lose the respect of others, and leave a terrible impression. Why leave this essential expertise up to chance when it can make or break the success of your relations?”
Source: The Art of Communication: 8 Ways to Confirm Clarity & Understanding for Positive Impact
“The Art of Communication shares insights to help you communicate with a higher awareness and focused intention and meet people on their level to increase clarity and understanding.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Being brave is not for the light-hearted. Bravery takes fortitude—the very act of bravery prevents anyone from knowing you were ever afraid in the first place.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“The first thing others see is YOU—not your resume, background, or credentials. A picture is truly worth a thousand words and how you dress is the “picture” you provide for all the world to see.”
Source: The Art of Preparation: 8 Ways to Plan with Purpose & Intention for Positive Impact
“Being prepared not only reduces our stress level and keeps us from looking stupid, but it builds the confidence that other people have in us that we are dependable, reliable and can be counted upon.”
Source: The Art of Preparation: 8 Ways to Plan with Purpose & Intention for Positive Impact
“Being prepared prevents us from getting tripped up by unexpected glitches and surprises.”
Source: The Art of Preparation: 8 Ways to Plan with Purpose & Intention for Positive Impact
“Whether it is in the way you walk, talk, dress, or behave, your personal brand impacts how people react and respond to you. It is the essence of what makes you likable, knowable, and trustworthy. And it is what can make you memorable and sought after in the marketplace.”
Source: The Art of Preparation: 8 Ways to Plan with Purpose & Intention for Positive Impact
“Does your appearance accurately convey the message of who you are that you are trying to get across? When trying to make an excellent first impression in business but in doubt of what to wear, dress one level up from what is expected—if it's casual, dress in business casual, etc.”
Source: The Art of Preparation: 8 Ways to Plan with Purpose & Intention for Positive Impact
“Is your branding serving your needs for positive impact? Is it paving the way for a great first impression on people when they meet you, think of you, speak of you, or even see you on the Internet? If not, it’s time for a change, and it is perfectly within your control.”
Source: The Art of Preparation: 8 Ways to Plan with Purpose & Intention for Positive Impact
“Project your “brand” to be remarkable and memorable. Whether through a positioning statement, product placement, advertising campaign, service, a logo, mission, or message, your brand is what makes you and/or your company remarkable—or not.”
Source: The Art of Preparation: 8 Ways to Plan with Purpose & Intention for Positive Impact