This post is the second in a series examining the qualities and skills needed to be an effective communicator, including genuine courtesy.

Do you anticipate the year ahead with eyes that see possibilities or dread? What you “see” depends on your perspective. Get a fresh one.

This post encourages being more comfortable discussing controversial topics, not to avoid conflicts, but to build connections.

To know whether communication is clear to an audience requires listening. Active listening. This post explores why, when and how.

What are the various ways you could finish this sentence: “I am _____________”? Consider that the words we use define us. We often fill...

Christmas Eve. 1914. The Western Front. A world at war. Have you heard the story of what happened that night? There are many versions of...

What traditions are most important to you, your family, your community, and your audiences? When you think about the holiday season, as...

Kindness. What does it mean to you? It goes beyond being nice. It is demonstrating compassion, grace, empathy, goodwill, mercy,...

Do you want to be more successful in your personal and professional life? Who doesn’t!? When thinking about factors that could lead to...

Do you feel grateful? Do you say thank you or write notes of appreciation? Are you characterized by an “attitude of gratitude”? In the...

Can you recall a great conversation during a meal? Maybe it lasted well past the food was eaten and the dishes were cleared away. You...

If someone asked you, “Are you a leader?” How would you respond? a) Yes, always b) No, never c) Sometimes, it depends Many...

In this season of Thanksgiving, we are encouraged to have an “attitude of gratitude.” Really? Even in 2021, nearly two years into a...

To speak or not? Depending on the situation, speaking up or keeping silent will be the better choice. Both are important. Important...

Is it possible for the United States of America to be united again? What will unite us? One year ago I proposed the idea that better...

Learn 5 essential qualities of listening an effective communicator will demonstrate. First one? Paying attention.

Communication that builds unity begins with listening, leading to trust and respect. It honors diversity and seeks common ground.

What characteristics describe a mother? In celebration of Mother's Day, we honor and recognize what it means to be a mother.

Social distancing during the COVID-19 crisis is creating the need to connect in new ways. We must find new ways to stay social connected.

Communicate love with presence rather than presents.