All of us are communicators. Whether for work, business or in our personal lives, we must communicate with others. Man is, after all a social being. How then, can I improve my communication skills?

In the book crucial conversations the authors discuss tools that they understand are useful to improving high stakes conversations. They suggest we start by working with ourselves.

We must start with our own heart and must improve ourselves. We need to constantly prod ourselves towards change and self-improvement. It is always the more skilled among us that constantly seek to improve themselves, in dialogue and in every aspect. That is why Tiger Woods or Michael Jordan practice harder and longer than the average Joe.

Once you are ready, you should start with the right motives and remain focused on them regardless of what transpires. To do this you must clearly know what you wnt and must remember that dialogue is always an option. Either/or choices are fool choices and must be avoided. There is always a better alternative for all.

But what if they still disagree? Then it is time to re-examine and refocus. Examine your motives. What is it that you really want - for yourself and for others? What do you want for this relationship? Am I behaving as I should if I really want these results? If you question your true desires, then you can begin to make the concious choices to change them or adapt them.

'It is necessary to try to surpass one's self always; this occupation should last as long as life.' Christina Augusta, Queen of Sweden