Sep 22, 2021 | Communication Skills, Effectiveness, Personal Growth, Self-Development
If you struggle with being assertive and knowing how to communicate effectively, you’re not alone — it’s a problem faced by many. In this excerpt from her audiobook, psychologist Dr. Julie De Azevedo Hanks encourages you to examine the way you assert yourself at work and at home, sharing strategies for getting your message across clearly and confidently. 
Aug 2, 2017 | Communication Skills, Interview, Relationships
We all know that men and women think differently. When women don’t understand how the male mind works, it can lead to frustration, misunderstandings and difficult relationships. Today psychologist Shawn Smith, author of the audiobook “The Woman’s Guide to How Men Think,” offers insights into male psychology, and some practical tips for women to help them better understand and connect with the men they love. 
May 3, 2017 | Communication Skills, Effectiveness, Personal Growth, Relationships
We all know the gnawing feeling of needing to have a difficult conversation with someone. While the conversation could improve things in the long term, in the short term our fear can win out and cause us to avoid it. The good news is that there are simple skills that can help us learn how to have difficult conversations. Today we’re sharing an excerpt from the audiobook “The Assertiveness Guide for Women: How to Communicate Your Needs, Set Healthy Boundaries, and Transform Your Relationships” by psychotherapist Julie de Azevedo Hanks. If you’ve ever been bothered by a friend, coworker, child or partner, but found yourself uncertain about how to have a difficult conversation with that person, you’ll appreciate these concrete steps. You'll learn how to create a situation where your message, intent, mind, and heart will be heard and respected by another person. You can feel comfortable having even the most challenging conversations! 
Feb 8, 2017 | Anxiety Relief, Communication Skills, Effectiveness, Personal Growth, Stress Management
Fear of public speaking has its roots in the fear of being scrutinized by others. Sweaty palms, racing hearts and upset stomachs are the mind’s way of urging us to run and hide. We humans are deeply wired with an understanding that scrutiny might result in being ostracized by others. Social acceptance is very important to us, since we aren’t equipped to survive alone. Psychologist Shawn T. Smith shares insights into the biology behind the fear of public speaking, as well as how to challenge and disrupt irrational thought.
