With the advancement of technology and social mediums such as Facebook, Snapchat, and twitter, our attention is constantly fixated on different stimuli. So much so that you and I don't even realize how much it's shaping us. Now these mediums aren't inherently bad, but they can be when used too often. This is because you're focus is warped. "Wait.... Jeremy what are you talking about?" I'm talking about your EYE CONTACT! It sucks!
Good eye contact is such an important trait for good communication with your fellow humans. Whether you're dating, doing a presentation for work/ school eye contact holds weight. Many people see you as more trustworthy, more self-confident, and genuinely engaged in the interaction. Now although eye contact is a very simple concept, it doesn't mean it's easy. There are times where you may feel uneasy or overwhelmed by direct eye contact. However rest assured if you improve you're eye contact you'll be a SOCIAL BEAST when out in the real world.
"Jeremy that's cool and all, but how do improve it?"
good question, here are a few tips from your's truly on how to improve eye contact:
- Get out your head ---- Often times when we interact with people we aren't even present to the moment. We are either thinking of what to say next, or what we're gonna have for dinner that night. When in an interaction, pretend that you and that person are the only important things in that moment. This takes practice, however mediation is a great way of speeding this up.
- Look at everyone ---- You probably heard heard of this already because it works so well. When you're out and about, just look at random people in the eyes. Now don't stare at people like a creep (8 seconds+) but try to hold a gaze. As you keep doing this consciously you'll get good, and it will then be subconscious. Stick to it! this isn't something that works overnight.
- 3, 4, 5 second intervals ---- When interacting, maintain eye contact for 3 seconds. Then when you get comfortable with that do 4, then 5 and so on. In my opinion 6 seconds is the sweet spot and then break it.
Try implementing these tips into your life. Apply it! don't just read about it and forget. Thank you for your time and good luck on your eye contact improvement, go kill it!