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Dear Melissa,
Letter From the Editor:
WHAT YOU NOTICE MATTERS!
And, what I notice is that abundance is not something you receive once a year from a man in a bright red suit chortling "Ho, Ho, Ho!"
Abundance is a state of mind nurtured by mindful observation of all the riches in the world around you. As I sit here writing this, the last of the golden and auburn leaves fall to the ground, creating a layer of sunshine on my grass.
Abundance is appreciating the kind and joyous actions of others. At lunch yesterday, the woman I was with turned to look at a table of diners who were laughing delightfully. By the look on her face I could see that she was appreciating the frivolity that was spilling over to our table.
Abundance is being aware of all the verbal gifts you can give, that often mean so much more than a physical present. Remember to tell people the things that you think and feel. Things like:
- "Your effort and support make work so much more enjoyable!"
- "Have I told you today how much I love our friendship?"
- "My heart is full of love for you."
By the way, I hope you know how much affection and appreciation I have for you, the readers of this ezine.
Help your holidays be as stress-free and fun as possible. I've listed some small talk tips for holiday parties below and a bunch of fun gift links in the right-hand column.
May you experience an abundance of love and joy this Holiday Season.
P.S. Get a jump on those New Year's Resolutions. Create a dream board that reflects the abundance you'd like to experience in 2008.
Send all your comments, ideas and questions to me at: wadscomm@msn.com or online at: www.melissawadsworth.com
| Seven Small Talk Skills for the Holiday Season |
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 Tis the season for holiday parties, extended family get-togethers and impromptu socializing. So here are a few small talk pointers to help you enjoy yourself to the utmost and to give the gift of YOU to others.
- Go to holiday parties and events with a festive attitude! Be light hearted and excited about social opportunities. Just think of the fun people you could meet. So, no Scrooge-like mumbling about how you don't know anyone when you walk into a party. Resolve to be upbeat and to be pleasant.
- Have a party game plan. If you know the hostess you can always ask to be introduced to other guests. Or just pick a target and introduce yourself with a smile and nice comment like: "This is such a wonderful gathering, how do you know the host?" or "It's nice to meet you. I love a good party. It forces me to stop shopping and baking (substitute you- appropriate tasks here) long enough to meet a few more wonderful people before the year is over."
- Wear something that makes you feel good and that others can compliment you on. Compliment others on their lovely holiday jewelry and garb. This is no time to be stingy with kind words. Everyone likes to be noticed. Just don't go overboard. One compliment and then move on to a sincerely curious question that will get them talking about themselves.
- Give the gift of your attention. Holiday parties are one of you last opportunities to be nice for the year. Slow down and create the intention to give people your full attention. This can be difficult with a lot going on around you, but stay in the moment and think nice thoughts about the person speaking to you. They'll get the good vibes.
- Protect your good mood and generous nature. Politely escape people who have had too much to drink or anyone who is inappropriately hitting on you. A simple comment that you need to find the restroom or that you've promised to help the hostess should allow you to depart gracefully. This works in the instance you're engaged in prolonged conversation with a person who seems fearful of ever leaving the warmth of your kind regard. You can also introduce them to someone new and then make a departure.
- Mingle, don't become an ornament at the bar or buffet table. If someone of interest heads off to the buffet table that's a good time to chat them up as you wait in line or as you select food. Just don't stay glued to the buffet or bar hoping people will start conversation. You will just eat or drink too much and feel awkward.
- Look for the other friendly faces and jovial souls. Even at a party seemingly comprised of chilly cliques, there's bound to be someone who would love someone to talk to. Look for that other friendly person who is on their own. And your bonus tip...
- Don't take other's behavior personally. Some party goers are just a tough crowd. Don't take it personally. If you introduce yourself to a group and get a frosty reception, stay for a minute or two and move on. And, if you are at a party with lots of friends, go ahead and gab happily with them, but try to keep aware and open to new people joining your conversation. That's a really great gift to give others.
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| Inspirational Quote |
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Absolutely unmixed attention is a prayer."
Simone Weil
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| Special Reports and Speaking Engagements |
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Special Report!
If you are interested in having more small talk confidence, being better connected to others, attracting more clients and making more sales, get my Special Report: Making Business Wise Connections With Smart Small Talk.
Melissa Wadsworth is a self-help author, conscious communications expert, and teacher of empowered awareness. Through her writing, presentations and seminars, she emphasizes the vital importance of wide-awake living and mindful communications to a fulfilling and successful life path.
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| Important: Reprint Permission Guidelines & Archived Issues |
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If you wish to use any of the articles from this issue in your own electronic newsletter or ezine please include the following paragraph:
Reprinted from What You Notice Matters! a complementary ezine from conscious living expert Melissa Wadsworth. Interviews and articles deliver inspiration and tips for achieving personal and professional abundance through awareness.
THANKS, IN ADVANCE, FOR FORWARDING THIS EZINE TO FRIEND, FAMILY AND BUSINESS ASSOCIATES.
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