COMMUNICATION:

How to be a good communicator and how to make the most of your relationships:

* Be interested in other people - show that you are by asking questions (but don't be insincere or hypocritical - nice word). Not mundane comments about the weather. Say something interesting like: "How's the back yard?" Be tactful. Don't say, "has grannie 'popped off' yet?"

* Be punctual - this shows you are responsible, courteous and respectful of other's time.

* Enjoy other people's company and have FUN.

* Tell the good news (without being a "Bible-basher", please). Be positive and other people will enjoy your company.

* Be decisive - this shows confidence

* Like yourself and be positive about your life. Doing this will draw others towards you.

* Keep your sense of humour. Hope you've still got one after reading all this!

* Tell people what you like about them without embarassing them.

* Be realistic in your goals, plans and desires.

* Look at people, when you talk to them.

* Spend time alone with your partner/"significant other".. Go on walks together. If you are not in a close relationship, discuss what's happening in your life from time to time with a close friend. If like me, you don't have one, join "rent-a-friend".

* Give and take in your relationships.

* Smile often (not inanely).

* Respect people (for what they are).

* Recognise that right and wrong are never black and white. There are always three sides to any story: your side, the other person's...and the TRUTH.

* Try to put yourself in the other person's shoes (only if they fit you). I like walking a mile in another man's shoes. By the time he finds out, I'm a mile away and I've got his shoes!

* Watch, wait and listen when developing relationships.

* Be assertive, but cautious.

* Don't gossip, backbite and backstab. Treat others, as you'd LIKE to be treated yourself - with dignity and respect.

and most importantly,

* Be true to your values and beliefs. Personal integrity is crucial at ALL TIMES.
"If you have integrity, nothing else matters.
If you don’t have integrity, nothing else matters."
- Alan K. Simpson

Always remember success and happiness are processes
(continually in progress/"under construction") ...
and states not merely achieved through arriving at a
particular destination.

So...
As you travel down the journey of life,
JUST BE YOURSELF and BE HAPPY.

Craig Lock ("Incorrigible Encourager, Information and Inspiration distributor")

http://www.craiglockbooks.com
http://www.craiglock.com

"The task ahead of you can always be overcome by the power within
you...and the often seemingly difficult or even "impassible") path
ahead of you is never as steep with the great spirit that lies
within you."
- Craig Lock

Craig Lock
www.craiglockbooks.com