Entry 1: Interpersonal Communication

I think my most significant strengths in the area of communication is that I am humorous, and that I am observant to the situation that I am speaking in and about.

Being a 22 year old, college student has taught me to be flexible and easy going. I take things not too seriously, and explain things in a fun and exciting fashion because at many times I feel that I there's a lot to laugh about. Whether it be through sarcasm, being silly, or telling an amusing story, I say things in an this funny fashion so that what I am trying to express comes off as memorable and enjoyable.
Working in the field of education has taught me a lot about being a situational speaker. In working with kids, you have to really think about the words, tone, and even your body language in expressing your thoughts and ideas. Kids have a knack for absorbing the behaviors of those who are around them, and it's wise to personify a responsible individual. So I speak clearly, using words that are a little big in vocabulary but appropriate to their age, and talk so that I am always standing up and having them looking up at me. Although it sounds strange, and maybe a little cruel, it's for the fact that I want them to always give respect to those who are elder, or "above" them. And besides, I don't talk to my friends or classmates the way I would to talk my co-workers or the kids at my work.

Some things I feel that I should do better at is that I tend to be brief in explanation and that I lack empathy for others. Sometimes being brief can have it's upside because it is short and to the point, but I make the assumption that others just already know the situation and so I leave out a lot of information. And this also goes in with empathy. I am brief because I knowingly chose to leave a lot of information to others, especially strangers because I am more concerned with why I should trust that stranger. When really, I shouldn't be so close minded and judgmental upon others, and realize that through communication I could learn more instead of wasting my energy wondering or formulating assumptions.

Some goals I should really consider is to stop being so judgmental towards new ideas, and be a little more trusting of people. Or at least, open to speaking my mind. I think it's a cultural thing to be into your own world, and pack in your emotions so that no one can come up on the idea that you are weak and vulnerable. I think opening up more details will help my communication competency. Lastly, I should do some self monitoring to really make sure I keep up with those things. I am aware that I do them, but I don't care to change them. I've always known that my weaknesses were really bad, but I never did anything to change them just because I was comfortable. But I think I'm ready to get out of that habit, and continue with my easy going attitude, but with a consideration for others.