Toast to The Master

In today's society, we have access to technological luxuries like text messenger, the iPad, and the Kindle. Libraries have books and journal articles available online; paying bills became simpler with automated pay. As people take advantage of these resources, something else happens. One's ability to effectively communicate has decreased significantly. I do not have scientific evidence to prove this. However, behaviors that are displayed are no longer transparent. Students browse on Facebook in the middle of class and people will text to fill in the silence. When I think about these things, I ponder the following question: Have we lost the art of human conversation? 

I don't think human conversation has run dry-yet. It is an inevitable skill that is necessary to survive, but one that is not practiced as much as it should be. Is it more convenient to send an e-mail or a quick text message? Sometimes it is and sometimes it's not. Regardless of convenience, stop making excuses! It is easier to just make the phone call or meet up with someone in-person to discuss what needs to be discussed. 

Instead of making excuses, start taking control of your life. I am not the keeper of all knowledge, but I do know that if you exercise communicating effectively in-person, it will become easier. With that said, here is my challenge to you. Join your local Toastmasters International group. Toastmasters is a group designed to improve and enhance public speaking and leadership skills. As you develop these skills, you will improve your ability to communicate, in-person, with those around you. Eventually, what will happen is that you will prefer to communicate in this fashion. 

I know, I know. "The group meets when it's not convenient with my schedule." "They meet too early in the morning." "I don't fit in with this group of people." Again, stop making excuses! You are creating an unnecessary filter. If one group doesn't meet your needs, then find a different group. In fact, I highly encourage you to shop around. No two groups do things the exact same way. One group model might appeal to you over other models. If you give the group a chance, and allow yourself to get out of your comfort zone, you will receive rewards that exceed your expectations.

In closing, to you, I say this: Raise your glass high and cheers to the best you!