Welcome to the first post of 2014! I hope you all enjoyed ringing in the New Year.
During this time of year, people around the world resolve to learn new skills and achieve goals they set for themselves. So I thought it was interesting when I read an article in the November 2013 issue of Real Simple magazine that focused on skills you should have in order to navigate this crazy thing we call life.
Related reading: Why I Don’t Make New Year’s Resolutions
Here are the five skills featured:
- how to be alone
- how to take a compliment
- how to keep a conversation going
- how to ask for feedback
- how to remember names
Do you agree?
After reading this article, I realized that these skills were necessary in business as well as life. Whether you’re attending a networking event, dealing with co-workers or clients or working on an important solo project, these skills will keep you on top of your game.
Related reading: Boomers to Millennials: Your Generation Sets Your Communication Style
I would like to add two (or three, depending on your view) skills to this list: the ability to give and take constructive criticism and listen. It may sound strange, but I haven’t met a whole lot of people who dole out constructive criticism well. Criticism? Yes. It’s the constructive part that’s often missing. Listening also seems to be a lost art in our society today.
What do you think?
What other skill is necessary to navigate business or life?
Would you remove any skills from this list?
Chime in. Let’s get this 2014 party started!
Cheers,
Jaime
2013 or 2014, we’d still love to connect!
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Hello Jaime,
I agree with Real Simple’s five and your two.
In a way, your two make a good pair. I think if we really listen to one another, it will be easier to take and accept constructive criticism.
I’d add kindness and gratitude to the list.
Wishing you and all who read this many blessings in the New Year!
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Carol,
Thanks for commenting! I love your additions. Kindness and gratitude certainly make navigating life’s ups and downs so much easier. I think they can help you be successful in business as well.
Wishing you well in 2014!
Jaime
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