Watch yourself improve (You can’t learn jiu-jitsu from a book)

My son’s baseball coach records him swinging his bat, then turns his phone to my son and says, “see what you did there?”

Football teams watch post-game films.

Public speakers watch video of themselves on stage.

You can’t become a better communicator just by reading tips, observing others, or watching videos. 

Skill building requires reflection and practice before “owning” a new skill to the point where it’s second nature.

The learning curve is actually a learning and forgetting curve. Source.

Here’s one way to get some perspective on your communication style and obstacles.

Get a pocket journal and take notes after your interactions throughout the day. Use quick bullets or long paragraphs, it doesn’t matter, but reflect on paper. Ask two questions: what was going on inside me, and what was going on inside the other person?

Can’t do it after every conversation? Then just commit to five minutes of journaling at the end of the day, reflecting on one interaction from the day. Ask the same two questions.

This will force you to think beyond your mind’s recurring dialogue and build an understanding of yourself and others, the cornerstone of confident communication.

Now, do you want to practice in a safe environment? Check out one of our workshops.