Do you ever talk to yourself?

Okay, you were singing with the radio or talking on the phone, right?

Personally, since it's always best not to be surprised by the words that come out of your mouth, I prefer to think of it as employing one of my best strategic secret weapons. My, "How do I feel strategy sessions."

The next time you have an important decision or conversation looming, just find a quiet place ask yourself how you feel about the situation.

Then, start talking to yourself!

Start exploring your answers from every angle, working through every possible solution while stumbling upon anything embarrassing you don't want to say. Later, when it's time to speak your mind, you'll know how to win the day.

Being a good self-listener is important, even if it makes you feel awkward.

Remember, the world is an unusual place. It's always been that way. You weren't around for the first few million years to know the difference.