Communication: A Proactive Approach

Communication is key. We see this statement on cheesy bumper stickers, in every field and in every situation where communication either affected the outcome positively or negatively. While I may be one preaching to the choir or acting as a redundant recorder, I want to bring up a beneficial element that may give you the upper hand. Whether it is addressing a certain topic in your personal life or going for that big promotion, proactive communication is key, without it, you leave room for doubt, confusion and above all failure.

A proactive approach takes commitment, perseverance and determination. Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines proactive as: acting in anticipation of future problems, needs and changes. Anticipation affects us all. We create a sense of anticipation through people, time and situations. Our social construction over a certain element can lead us to trigger physical, mental and emotional signs of anticipation. Pro-activeness prepares you to face anticipation with confidence helping you to achieve your goals, needs and greeds with great success. Communication is not exempt from a proactive approach. In fact, your proactive approach to communication can lead you to get what you want, when you want it and how you want it.

Seems easy and simple? Well most people stay complacent. We don't want to hurt people's feelings or step on peoples' toes. We rather quietly work our way up a boring ladder instead of bursting the status quo bubble. In the end, we feel disappointed in ourselves, sometimes blaming others for our misfortunes or even blame it on bad timing. All this is caused by lack of communication. Communication is verbal and nonverbal. For example, want that big promotion at the office? Let your supervisors know how much you want that opportunity by doing your work with quality and exceed the expectation of your job requirements. Hard work pays off! Additionally, be verbal about your desire, speak to your superiors about your ability to be a productive member of your organization, company or entity. Talk about how you want to learn and grow in the "biz" and believe this opportunity to be a great one for you to do so. This is one example of proactive verbal and nonverbal cues to get what you want, when you want it and how you want it. Nothing is impossible until you say it is, and even then, you create your own limits.

Looking for a new goal this year? Pick one thing, just one to start off, and communicate about it. Whether it is having a better relationship with your significant other, starting your own business, getting in shape or landing that dream job, make a plan to proactively communicate with those that can help you get where you want to be. Help will be given to those who ask. I know, I know. It is easier said then done. But, give yourself a chance and try it, you might be surprised with the outcome and above all with yourself. I am not trying to have my very own cheesy bumper sticker or ugly coffee mug made, but I am trying to share a secret that has worked for me in the past and continues to do so.

Proactively communicate! Be the one that inspires yourself and others to achieve greatness in your daily routine and overall life.

The Ripple Effect

We have all witnessed it. Some one starts singing a fine tune at a party, and everyone chimes in. I like to call this the ripple effect. Whether it is standing up for your rights at work or getting everyone on board on an idea, the ripple effect is present in our lives. I'd like to briefly talk about the ripple effect in changes in our close proximities that have the ability to have a greater impact in the long run.

Every great innovator, philosopher, leader, scientist and every average joe has the capacity to initiate the ripple effect. It is not some esoteric, unattainable thing only touchable or fathomable by the gods. It is applicable to you and me and every one in between. As I see it, the ripple effect is ignited by an idea, a person, a circumstance, a predisposition or advantage and its ability and potential to make something big out of it. This "thing" has the capacity to bring people together and even divide them. It's potential is so great and the worst part is, it sometimes goes unnoticed. When it goes unnoticed, it is never truly valued and its potential stagnates where the idea once flourished. I am here to tell you that you can have the advantage and the edge by seeking ideas and opportunities to better your personal, social, academic and career life. You have the capacity to change it on a personal level just as much as on a greater level with others.

I challenge you to find one thing in any part of your life and to push its potential. Whether it is brining some change to your life or to a group, seek to make it the very best it could be. If you do it on a personal level and succeed, you might create the ripple effect and try other "things" in your life. You could even inspire those around you to do the same, creating a ripple effect with your surroundings, that could lead to a greater ripple effect in their surroundings, and so on. If you choose to do something that could affect others, just know you will have to find a creative way to get others on board. You shouldn't see this as a challenge but as an ability to push your limits as a leader and a team players all at once. 

The ripple effect has potential. This idea is so accessible yet so unexploited that it seems that only a few have the ability to use it. But I am telling you, it's possible, if you believe in that idea and above all believe in yourself, you will ignite the ripple effect. I hope you take the challenge and see how it van work for you. Who knows, maybe you'll be the next best thing,

This Christmas...

It's that time of year again. People rushing through the malls, booking flights home, making plans to visit family and taking time off for the holidays. It's a time that many look forward to because they have family and friends to embrace during a time we call the "holidays". Society convinces us that it is the most wonderful time of the year. And for many, it is. But for a few, it is dreadful, depressing and lonely. 

Growing up, my family always held a rather large Christmas Eve party. My parents gathered close family and friends at this dinner party. Each year, they made sure that these people had a tradition they could hold on to through time. I've seen this party grow from 15 to almost 40 people. Every guest looks forward to this party and it's not only for my mother's famous biscotti. It's because it makes family feel good being together under one roof, and for those  joining the Zeroual tradition, it makes them feel welcomed and loved. It doesn't take much to make a family or a friend feel welcomed to such a tradition. It makes bonds and friendships run as deep as blood. 

I have learned so much from this tradition. My parents have opened their home to so many unconditionally and lovingly. Their kindness and generosity are what I love the most about the holidays. It's not the great food, the presents, the music or the games. It is the good feeling inside of me knowing my parents are genuinely exquisite individuals and a dynamic couple.

This holiday, don't think about the lavishing gifts you can give to one another. Think bigger! Look at those around you and make sure that you show people just how much they mean to you. It's not what you give to those around you, it's how you give. And, if all you can afford are good words, make sure you share abundantly. You never know who's day or holiday you might brighten. Make kindness and feel good words become a holiday tradition you carry with you all year long.