Page 3 - March 14 issue

opinions 3 THE SPOTLIGHT | BDSPOTLIGHT.COM | MARCH 14, 2014 Let’s talk SOCIAL SKILLS ARE IMPERATIVE IN TODAY’S COMPETITIVE WORLD ing the necessary social skills to voice also in the professional world. Knowing If you are a person of few words or yourself can become a constant battle. when and what to say can help individu- simply have trouble communicating We all have goals and dreams that als obtain the professional position that your thoughts to others, seek oppor- we want to achieve throughout life, and they may seek. tunities to improve your weaknesses. we are aware of the work and sacrifces It is important to realize that no one Individuals should learn to value other it takes to fulfll them. Many students can read your mind; therefore it is im- people’s strengths because such infu- work hard throughout their academic perative that you are able to advocate ences can potentially help you improve career to prepare for what the work- for yourself. The next time you do not your own social skills. place beholds; however, there are sev- understand a concept in class, do not The speech and debate classes of- By Celia Ochoa eral opportunities that students may hesitate to ask for help just because you fered at Ben Davis are also great learn- staff writer not be taking advantage of because they are afraid that others might judge or ing experiences available to students are afraid to speak out for help or sim- think less of you. Remember, something seeking to develop the necessary speak- ply cannot express what they can offer that you did not have in the frst place ing skills to become successful individu- ave you ever held back words to the world. cannot be lost; it can only be gained. als. If interested in learning more about that you wish you would A high grade point average is not ev- Being able to voice what is impor- the programs, contact debate instructor Hhave said? They are those erything that it takes to obtain oppor- tant and meaningful to you is a great Samantha O’Conner or speech instruc- words that leave you playing an endless tunities. Social skills to speak out and characteristic. After all, the person, or- tor, Kirby Volz. game of “what if” and sometimes even convince people to trust you to meet ganization or institution that you may Do not let your hard work and de- regret. expectations can be the golden ticket to be attempting to become a part of also termination be in vain just because you If you had built up the courage and your next opportunity towards success. consists of humans who understand were unable to express your opinion or said the right words, you would have Being able to communicate effec- your interest and effort to make your- assets that may have qualifed you for scored the job or leadership position tively is vital because it creates a strong self count. an honorary position. Instead, push that you desperately desired. But no, perception of yourself to potential em- They are not perfect either, and they yourself to obtain the courage and con- instead you doubted yourself and stood ployers or anyone who is able to help will be considerate of you even if you fdence to advocate for yourself. eyes wide-open frozen like a deer cross- you achieve your goals. Effective com- stumble over a word or two as long as Words, when used appropriately, ing a traffcked road. munication allows you to connect and they can see that you are attempting to have the power to connect and inspire For many students, being outspoken network with people that may have put your best foot forward. Better yet, people to contribute to your journey to- when appropriate can be a challenge. the resources or opportunities that you there is always room for improvement wards success. While there are several advantages to need to succeed. towards one’s communication and so- being an introvert, sometimes not hav- This is not just true in academics but cial skills. THE KEY COMPONENT get with approaching others, the more room timidly. Even if you are nervous BOOSTING YOUR CONFIDENCE CAN GO A LONG WAY successful you will be. try to emote the opposite. It is natu- Take more chances and get in- ral to feel uncomfortable or nervous, A simple way to gain more conf- volved. By participating you fgure but expressing or presenting yourself dence is to just join an activity or fo- out what you are good at and get the in a manner that suggests otherwise cus on things that you are good at. If chance to be around other people will not only make others think highly you are a good artist or singer, share who might feel the same way as you of you , but you will also feel slightly your gifts, a little showing off is not al- or share the same interests. By being more in charge as well. ways a bad thing. Better yet take pride part of a group you can be encouraged It is important to keep in mind that in what you do well. WE so often get by others and feel better about your- you cannot always win at everything caught up thinking that we cannot be self. or be the best at everything, but that proud of our accomplishments be- It is also very important to con- does not mean you are not a smart or cause we will be seen as arrogant or sider how you present yourself. By talented person. Whenever you get By Sonia Valdez conceded which does not have to be looking good or professional you will down or come across failure remem- news editor the case. feel more empowered and therefore ber everything that you are good at more confdent. Take care of yourself, and do well and see it as an opportu- Another way to help boost your confdence is to be more assertive. good hygiene counts and do not wear nity to grow and make yourself even little confdence can go Do not be afraid to go after what you clothing that is inappropriate. Your more than a long way. want. Do not allow yourself to just sit posture and body language can say a Whether it is at school, passively on the sidelines. Force your- lot about a person. Walk into a situa- A work or home the benefts self to talk to others. Ask for the pro- tion or room walking tall. It gives off of being more confdent are numer- motion or opportunity to try some- a far more serious and respected at- ous. thing new. The more comfortable you titude than if you just slouched into a