"It is always your next move."

-- Napoleon Hill

What should be your next move to upgrade your conversation skills?

Today, February 2, a few American states celebrate the quirky holiday, "Groundhog Day" when this animal is supposedly able to forecast when spring will arrive. The holiday brings to mind the great comedy movie of the same name.

   Synopsis of "Groundhog Day," 1993 American film:

Actor Bill Murray plays Phil Connors, an egocentric and sour Pittsburgh TV weatherman who, during a hated assignment covering the annual Groundhog Day event in Punxsutawney, finds himself repeating the same day over and over again. After indulging in hedonism and numerous suicide attempts, Phil re-examines his life and priorities. Pain was his teacher, and he sees that he must change. Only then is he able to transform his attitudes and behaviors and finally win the affection of lovely actress Andie MacDowell.

Like Phil, many persons are unaware of their negative behaviors, such as finishing others' sentences, interrupting, poor listening, or using offensive language. Without awareness, it's not possible for them to make changes.

Consider: Do you have a conversational behavior you should stop doing? If you know, put it on your "Stop Doing" list and work on eliminating it.

Or, do you lack a conversational behavior you need to be more effective?

For example, many conversers could benefit by developing better listening skills, better use of questions, and acquiring a richer vocabulary.

For greater awareness of your conversation skills, take a few minutes to do the Conversation Mastery Self-test on the website, www.conversationmatters.com. (Click "Self-Test" link at the top of screen. Takes only minutes, then scores you.)

What will be your next move?

After you identify that move, write it down and make it happen.