Who Goes First?

Who Goes First?

We all desire to live in a world that is safe and allows us to experience positive relationships at home, at work, and in our community. We want to shop, eat, work and travel without fear. While we all desire this ideal, how do we achieve it?

Too often we diminish others based on their gender, race, political orientation, religion, intelligence, and socioeconomic standing. Technology has provided a vehicle for us to communicate with those we may never see face-to-face. Anonymity has created an environment where harsh, mean-spirited, divisive comments are made cultivating fear, mistrust, and prejudice.

When did we forget to look at others as fellow human beings and instead allowed the thinking of us and them to prevail? Once we see ourselves as better than others, we give ourselves license to treat them in any manner we see fit.Continue reading

Practical Ways to Communicate with Class

Practical Ways to Communicate with Class

A touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment—the smallest act of caring improves every interaction.” ~Deborah King

Although we have been communicating in some form since the beginning of time, never has such a common practice become so challenging. Communication today embodies more than the written word or the familiar face-to-face interaction—we also communicate through cell phones, email, text messaging and social media. Knowing which medium to use, and how to use them with class, is no small feat.

Today’s fast-paced, rapidly changing landscape requires each of us to refine our verbal, nonverbal, and technological skills to communicate with class. So, how do you resist falling victim to the many communication blunders that can tarnish your image and destroy your relationships?Continue reading

When Does Comfort Become Inappropriate?

When Does Comfort Become Inappropriate?

If others are distracted by your clothing or the lack thereof, your professional presence takes a negative hit. ~Deborah King

We live in an increasingly casual society — casual in our dress, behavior, and communication. Additionally, as Americans, we believe that our personal comfort trumps the comfort of everyone else. After all, I have a right to wear what I wear, do what I do, and say what I say. While I may have the right, should I?Continue reading

Don’t Do This at Work

Don’t Do This at Work

Every job has its share of frustrations, and those frustrating moments typically have little to do with job responsibilities or technical issues.  Many of these office stress points are due to inappropriate behavior, dress, grooming or communication.  These aggravating situations often are the ‘elephant in the room’  that no-one is willing to address.

Here are some of the most common things people wish others would never do in the office.Continue reading

10 Skills Every Child Should Possess

10 Skills Every Child Should Possess

Children are often encouraged to “put on their best manners” when a guest comes to their home or when they go to an important event — as though “putting on” their best manners was like putting on a special outfit they might wear. The real goal should be to have manners become a part of them. But who should teach children to be civil and well-mannered?

Importance of Parenting
A parent is the most important teacher in a child’s life. Children learn what behavior and manners are important based on what they see and hear at home. Those lessons are daily and lasting. Continue reading