Spirit Magazine - June 2014 - (Page 40)

Wise Guide Judy Apps is a communication coach and the author of The Art of Conversation. them, so a comment often works well because it gets the other person to open their mouth and make a noise, which for some is a start." Q+A Mind Over Chatter Conversationalist Judy Apps simplifies small talk. Is talking different than conversing? "Most people prefer talking to listening," Apps says, "but conversation involves both. It goes two ways, like a game of tennis, and both people get something out of it, whether it's pleasure, information, or a connection." How can you get over a fear of making small talk? "Taking a big breath gives you confidence as well as some air to talk with. In fact, any 40 SPIRIT JUNE 2014 sort of movement helps. Look outside at something. Wiggle your toes. It gets you out of your head and keeps you from being so self-conscious." How should you frame questions? "The general advice is that you should only ask open questions, ones that can't be answered without a full sentence. But some people are quite daunted by What makes people bad at conversation? "They think it's only about having something to say. Books talk about finding the right topic and being entertaining, but you'll get more out of it if you're relaxed and curious. There are a million opportunities for small talk, and we shouldn't treat each one as if it's a matter of life and death." Is it something you can practice? "Once you've convinced yourself to be lighthearted about it, practice all the time. When you're shopping, don't just silently hand over your change; make a comment about something in the shop. And it's OK if not every encounter is successful. Not everyone is going to want to talk that day, and that's fine." ILLUSTRATION BY ALEX EBEN MEYER

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Spirit Magazine - June 2014

Spirit Magazine - June 2014
Contents
Set your sights on Atlanta
Gary’s Greeting
Gary’s Greeting en Español
Star of the Month
Freedom Story
From the Editor
Your Words
Your Pictures
Eat Drink Sleep
Create a stir with Sriracha
Try a Midwest take on crab cakes
Wise Guide
Spice up small talk
Learn about a little bird
Numbers
Business
Hop over hurdles
Ask for expert opinions
Size up adjustableheight desks
Follow Your Nose
Scents & Sensibility
Your Adventure In Galveston
Promotional Series: Spirit of Music City
Calendar
Craft a critter at a snail’s pace
Fun!
Spotlight
Community Outreach
Products & Services
Flight Service
Terminal Maps
Information
Rapid Rewards and A+ Rewards Partners
Route Map
The “If” List
Get to know Gabrielle Union

Spirit Magazine - June 2014