Practice Makes Perfect

In my interpersonal communications course last fall, we discussed ways to become better communicators. We also stressed the importance of being yourself--real and not fake. People always want to know how to improve their communication and stay true to their personalities. If people try new styles of communicating, is that betraying their original personalities. I say, "No way."

Life is a journey. People are all at different stages of that journey. Everyone is trying to find the real he/she that makes most sense and brings most happiness.

In class, we decided the best way to find your true form of communication is to practice many styles. If you see someone who seems particularly crafted at dealing with people, then mirror their actions. It may seem unnatural at first, but it gets to the point that you can mold it to yourself, until it becomes your own style of communication.

My roommate Sydney, for example, has always gotten on well with people. She just knows how to talk to them. She is very friendly, makes a point to remember names and tid-bits of information about the people she encounters, and smiles a lot.  I'm horrible with names, so I decided  first to try smiling when I talk to people. When people feel you enjoy being around them, as shown by a smile, they feel happier about being around you.  


I think the same could be said for speeches. Blogger Nick Morgan speaks of some who are particularly good at speeches. (see http://publicwords.typepad.com/nickmorgan/2008/09/do-politicians-write-their-own-speeches.html) Ronald Reagan especially knew where he stood and how he wanted to communicate those beliefs.

President Obama also is known for his communication skills. What would it hurt to study out these politicians and the styles they choose to communicate through?