Questions, Questions, Questions???

With some time on my hands, I've had some time to be introspective. Through this self examination, I've found some wonderful things... and some things to work on.

My friend, Dave Jochum, has been coaching me through some leadership material. One of my assignments was to have some people that are close to you answer these two questions:

1. What do I do when I communicate that connects with people?
2. What do I do when I communicate that turns people off? (Ouch!!!)

The first question is wonderful and I got some great feedback.  A couple of the answers to question number 1 were similar. That helped me to see some of my strong points in communication.

The second question is tough... but beneficial. I am glad I love all the people that answered these questions! It is sometimes hard to hear constructive criticism but I knew it was given in love. As I thought about the answers to question number 2, I realized that there was a lot of validity to what they were saying. This gave me some things to work on in my communication.

I need your help! Reply to this thread and let me know some tools, questions, ways that you use to examine yourself. These can be spiritual or personal. List and explain whatever tools you use (have used) to look at yourself to make you a better person. Let's grow together!