November 18th, 2009 
Maria Helm 
Starting a successful conversation is an art that is not hard to learn. Like most things in life conversations usually follow a pattern or formula. These tips for making conversation with strangers were meant for you and everyone that wants a little help to get the ball rolling:
1. Smile. Everyone is more engaging when they appear friendly and open.
2. Make eye contact.
3. Introduce yourself. A conversation is more likely to start and continue when names are exchanged.
4. Pick a relevant topic. It might sound cliche, but it’s always good to bring up the weather.
5. Share some details. Tell the other person a little about yourself.
Posted in 
Tags: 
Electronic mail. Who doesn’t love it? It’s quick, efficient and –let’s be honest — allows us to be somewhat removed from the person on the other end. But that doesn’t mean you throw professional courtesy and etiquette out the window when using e-mail to communicate with those around you. In fact, you should pay close attention to your e-mail habits and determine that you are sending the right message with each click of the mouse. Read on for a few tips on how to keep your e-mail goofs to a minimum:
Authentic success and worldly success are not mutually exclusive. Granted, it is easier to achieve them one at a time, but pursuing both is not an impossible dream once you realize the important distinctions between the two. We need not choose between them. We must only discern which of the two helps us care for our soul and the souls of those we love, and pursue that one first.
