Vocabulary Journal

I can't really emphasize enough the importance of a strong vocabulary. You will find that the ability to communicate effortlessly and effectively will open many doors for you in the future. In fact, there are many reasons to work toward building your vocabulary:

• When you broaden your vocabulary you quickly find that you gain self-confidence and you speak out in mixed company much more readily.
• You will find that you can communicate more easily as you build your vocabulary, and you don't get stuck using the same boring words over and over again in conversation.
• You avoid awkward situations that arise when somebody uses a word you don't know.

One way you can work on your vocabulary every day is by keeping a vocabulary journal. This is simply a notebook where you enter any new words that you hear as you go through your day. The holidays are an especially good time for starting a vocabulary journal, since many of us will be attending large gatherings where friends and family catch up for the year.

If you find yourself a little bit bored and surrounded by dozens of chattering adults over the holiday, you might want to grab a notebook and listen in!