Being able to communicate effectively with others is an essential skill for people of all ages. 【小题1】 People who want to develop those skills can learn how to do this from self-help books, workshops, and from the advice of other people.

【小题2】 Active listening involves a person listening carefully and attentively to the person speaking, restating what the other person has said — or what comes across — in a brief and nonjudgmental manner. 【小题3】 Becoming effective at active listening is one way to increase trust and understanding in a relationship, whether it is a personal or professional one.

Another tip to developing and improving interpersonal communication skills is to use feedback for different types of communication. Before giving speeches and presentations, it is always well advised to practice them before an audience and to ask for feedback before giving the real speech or presentation. 【小题4】

It also is essential in developing communication skills to use appropriate body language and eye contact. 【小题5】 For example, using direct eye contact and body language that indicates openness, such as uncrossed arms, can help to get across that a person is ready and willing to listen and to speak openly.

Making decisions, big or small, can sometimes be difficult. We’ve all experienced indecisiveness. But you can get better at it with practice and time. Here are a few methods to try that may help you become more decisive.

Make decisions for yourself

【小题1】 Ultimately, if you trust your intuition(直觉), you will know what the right decision is. Nobody else can give you the correct answers on what’s best for you. Try not to allow others to be the decision-maker for you and your goals.

Let things go

The fear that comes with worrying about making the “wrong” decisions can make one lose his common sense. Try not to worry about mistakes. 【小题2】Once you accept that things are not always in your control, making decisions will be much less threatening.

Talk it out

The simple act of speaking out loud will help lessen indecision and internal conflict. 【小题3】 Decisions can become less confusing and worrisome when we do so.

Outline the pros and cons

If you get stuck, draft a simple pro-con(支持-反对)list.【小题4】 Mentally weighing the pros and cons is simply adding to the indecisiveness. Pro-con lists facilitate objective and sound decision-making.

Flip a coin

Of course, flipping(掷)a coin shouldn’t be used for big decisions, such as marriage. But this will work if it’s something as simple as what to order on the menu. This simple trick makes the decision for you. And, there are times when the coin lands the wrong way.【小题5】

As is well known, making art is good for your health. It can reduce stress and improve your spirit. But you don’t have to be a full-time artist to get these benefits. 【小题1】 And the more you do it, the better. Here are some tips to help you kick—start your creative art habit. Don’t require yourself to have great skills. In fact, there are no differences in health outcomes between those who are identified as experienced in art and those who aren’t. 【小题2】

Figure out your mode of creative expression. There are many choices available: painting, cooking, baking, woodworking, sewing—the sky is the limit. 【小题3】 Anything that sets off your creative mind is good for you. And don’t feel like you have to stick to one thing. Mix it up—do whatever you’re in the mood for.

【小题4】 Once you have your art materials, here comes the fun part. Let yourself get lost in the process and just play. It’s the physical act of making art that causes those feelings of stress relief and positive spirit, not what you make. So, you don’t even need to finish what you’re making to feel those health benefits.

Think about making art like any healthy habit. Just as you make time to exercise and hang out with friends, you should make time for your artistic creation. You don’t even need a few hours. Doing just 10 minutes of art each day can do wonders. 【小题5】 You could set up a corner table for your art supplies. If space is an issue, put them all in a container that’s easily accessible.