

The art of nonverbal communication in practice. Are you upset with me?" Give them the opportunity to explain how they are feeling so you know for sure.Īmerican Psychological Association. "I notice that you won't look me in the eye when we speak. Before assuming that a person's body language or tone means something definitively, ask. They can also vary based on someone's personality.

This is another example of incongruent behavior.

Or maybe when someone is speaking with you, they are saying yes while shaking their head no. Look for incongruent nonverbal cues: Do you say that you're fine, then slam cupboard doors to show that you're upset? This can give those around you mixed messages.It can also help you recognize nonverbal behaviors you may want to adopt yourself (such as standing tall when talking to others to display self-confidence). What do their facial expressions say? What type of gestures do they use? Becoming familiar with their nonverbal communication patterns helps you recognize when they might be feeling a certain way quicker because you're actively watching for these cues. Become a student of others: It can also be helpful to consider how others around you communicate nonverbally.It can also give you insight into how you're feeling if you're having trouble putting it into words. Being aware of your own nonverbal communication tendencies is the first step to changing the ones you want to change. Think about how you change the tone of your voice depending on the emotions you are feeling. Pay attention to your own behaviors: Notice the gestures you use when you're happy versus when you're upset.
