Communicate: One of the best ways to put down your mental burdens for a while is to engage. Ask a question at a lecture. Join in a sing-along. Enter into a friendly debate.

This is the most important skill I believe that will allow you to develop and maintain your relationships. We learn to speak, read, and communicate at a very early age. As children we are very open to showing and speaking out. In fact, if you notice children do not hesitate to say what is on their mind nor do they hide their feelings. I still wonder why it is that as adults we sometimes lose the art of communication. Part of it is directly related to the fact that of course, we need decorum. You can’t always say what is on your mind; it could pose to be an awkward situation.

So with that said, sometimes we do get caught up with life and tend to really engage in communicating with our loved ones. It is easy to dwell in the situations that life presents to you however, take a step back. Part of living in the moment is to engage directly with your network. Not that I am the next American Idol, but I am a great fan of dancing. Part of learning to communicate is to also take part in activities that are outside of your element.

Here are a few ways for you to get back in gear by trying new ways to communicate:

Join a dance class and learn something new. You get the benefit of meeting new people but you also learn the art of dance through means of motion. It is a unique way of communicating but it has the upside of a great health benefit. Seriously, it’s a win-win.

If you are not once to really join the debate team then that is okay. Instead, take a public speaking class you can overcome your fears and gain the confidence to reach your goals. After all, this is about you.

Some people like to play sports, so join your local softball or kickball league and have some fun along the way. You will get to brush up on your coordination skills and learn to work on good sportsmanship. Either way, you will do great.

I hope that these tips help you to get out there and do things for yourself. One thing I have learned is that you have to do things for you, no one else will do it. So take the leap, it is hard in the beginning but once you start you will only play harder.