Never underestimate the power of pointing out the obvious.

People are better able to confront an uncomfortable truth when they can laugh at themselves. Jokes that illustrate difficult truths can make the point while bypassing denial and resistance.

We can control what we say, we can't control what other people here us day. Always ask people tell you what they heard you say.

Knowing the principles and practices of effective communication does not improve our ability to communicate. We must practice until they become an automatic and unconscious habits.

Communication about important issues should be done by appointment only. To make an appoint say: I have something important to talk with you about. Is this a good time. If not, when can we schedule a time to talk.

When you really listen to other people, they will leave the conversation believing that you opened up to them and that they got to know you better.