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For example, if you say you are feeling fine but your facial expression does not match, people
can find out.
The expression on the face helps you determine whether the words of the speaker are genuine
or fake.
People who are smiling with a joyful expression can be judged as being
intelligent, friendly or confident.
People who do not smile or appear serious can be taken to be unfriendly,
disinterested or even dumb.
Hence facial expressions can enhance the value of
what we say but sometimes they can also create
misunderstanding.
The next aspect of non-verbal communication is
eye contact. The eyes are frequently referred to as the ‘windows to the
soul’ since they are capable of revealing a great deal about what a person
is feeling or thinking. When you engage in a conversation with someone,
eye movements are common.
When a person looks directly into your eyes while having a conversation,
it indicates that he or she is interested and paying attention. On the other hand, breaking
eye contact, and looking away might indicate that the person is distracted, uncomfortable or
trying to conceal his or her feelings.
Blinking is natural but blinking too rapidly indicates that the person is feeling distressed or
restless.
Mouth can also convey a lot through lip movements. Biting the lips can indicate that a person
is worried, anxious or stressed. Tightening lips might indicate distrust or disapproval.
Covering the mouth can be an attempt to cover up an emotion or reaction.
Smiling can be genuine or even false. It can show happiness, sarcasm or even disinterest.
Gestures include movement of the hands, face or other parts of the body. You may wave,
point, beckon or use your hands when arguing or speaking animatedly. It’s important to be
careful of how you use gestures to avoid misinterpretation.
Your body movements and posture also convey a wealth of information to the world. The
way you sit, stand, walk, move, hold your head and carry yourself has a bearing on what
people perceive of you.
We also communicate a great deal through touch. A handshake, a hug, a pat, a grip on the
arm are all examples of communicating through touch.
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