Category: Uncategorized
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Remember the game of “hot potato?” Well, we often treat conflict like it’s a hot potato. We panic when we think there’s no one left for us to pass the conflict to. We worry that we’ll be the one left holding it. Why We Rush to Pass Conflict Along Experiencing conflict makes many of us…
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Interpersonal communication can be a lot like dodgeball? We need to stay engaged, read the room, know when to throw and when to duck, and be careful not to hit our own teammate. Think about it. Every conversation has its own movement, strategy, timing, and emotion. Some of us charge into discussions. Others hang back.…
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When we say, “Honesty is the best policy,” are we lying? Lies are part of everyday life. Some of us use them to help smooth social interactions. Others use them to avoid having to face the truth. If uncovered, a lie erodes trust much like a slow leak in a tire erodes safety. What kind…
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Praise is a relationship booster. And yet, we regularly underestimate its importance. Whether you’re in class, at work, or chatting, giving and receiving praise can transform the relationship. Done right, praise builds confidence and trust, and makes people more eager to show up and exceed performance expectations. But there are some rules to follow for…
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We are living in a digital world. Texting a thumbs-up emoji substitutes for having a real person-to-person conversation. Although texting may feel efficient, is it preferable? What happens when texting replaces our actually talking to one another? Well, there are upsides and downsides. The Upside Texting is the fast food of communication. It’s quick, easy,…
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A strong friendship doesn’t typically fall apart in one dramatic moment. Instead, it usually fades in the quiet spaces. The unanswered texts. The “let’s hang out soon” that never happens. The slow drift. But the good news? Strong friendships don’t depend on constant contact. Instead, they depend on one friend or the other creating opportunities…
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Handled well, an argument can actually strengthen a friendship. You learn more about each other, build trust, and prove that your connection can handle a little heat. Here’s how to argue well. Redefine “Winning” If your goal is to win, you’ve already lost. Sorry to point this out, but it’s true. To preserve your friendship,…
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Let’s face it: talking to other humans can be challenging. One minute you’re discussing weekend plans, the next you’re in a heated debate about pineapple on pizza or whether “reply all” should be illegal. Constructive dialoguing is what keeps conversations productive instead of turning them into verbal dodgeball. The good news? It’s a skill you…
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Small talk often gets dismissed as shallow, awkward, or unnecessary. In a world that values efficiency and productivity, chatting about the weather or weekend plans can feel like a waste of time. But in reality, small talk is one of the most powerful—and underrated—tools for career growth. When used well, it opens doors, builds trust,…
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Clothing has a story to tell. According to fashion critics, the clothing worn by civil rights leader Jesse Jackson told a story about his aspirations for himself and the nation. The clothing worn by first ladies tells a similar story—offering up an image of how they see themselves as well as symbolizing their fashion fluency…
Blogging About Communication 