Idiot’s Guide to Communication Skills

So you’ve been dealing with some stresses from life maybe you’ve lost a job or going through a divorce or maybe you’re just  naturally shy. Whatever the case, there’s always hope for you to improve on your communication skills.

Step 1

Start off by asking yourself “Have I always been this way?”. If you answer yes, you probably are just naturally shy which doesn’t mean that you’re hopeless. Actually, far from it! You will have to learn to teach yourself to get out into the crowd and push yourself to say something.

Step 2

Find someone you’re comfortable with. Practice your socializing skills with the one person you can always talk to and then see if they’ll introduce you to their friends. Chances are if you’re comfortable with them you’ll be comfortable around their friends. This will help expand your social group. 

Step 3

Honestly ask yourself if you think you’re an overall confident person. If you don’t believe that you are try some techniques to help boost your self-esteem. To boost your self-esteem make sure you’re thinking positively with life with things like the half full cup. The best things I’ve personally found to build self-esteem have been to work out reguarly and to find ways to help other people. That can include anything from volunteering at church to walking your neighbor’s dog. Confidence can make you or break you when it comes to the social world.

Step 4

This is a very important I repeat IMPORTANT step. Make sure that you’re not spending too much time in front of the computer or playstation. This will hinder your chances to go out and meet new people. I know what you’re thinking though “If I talk online all day I’ll develop some social skills!” While that’s true to a certain degree; It’s never going to bring out your full potential and allow you to learn to talk to people one on one. The best place I’ve found to meet new people has been my local church. The people are always friendly and are always interested in getting to know me while allowing me to get to know them.

Step 5

Patience is the key here. You’re not going to transform overnight into a social butterfly; but over time, you can be everything you’ve wanted to be. It just takes once again, patience.

Step 6

Realize who you are. Not everyone it socially gifted (not saying you can’t become social). Some people enjoy life being shy and that’s ok. No one ever said it was wrong to be shy. If you want to be more social though, you’re going to have to walk a little outside your comfort zone and talk to new faces.

Step 7

The next time you’re talking to someone whether it be a family member or somebody new, pay attention to your eyes. That may sound a little stupid but that can make the other person feel like you’re not enjoying the conversation if you don’t show any eye contact. No, you don’t have to stare straight into their eyes the whole time but keep most of your attention focused on them so that they feel like you care about what they have to say.