Perception

In the context of communication may be considered as being aware of one's own feelings and the feelings of others. The feelings you have about other people's moods and the way they act are perceptual, nonspoken communication between you. Intuition for perception in this sense, cannot be measured empirically. These feelings may be strong indeed. Therefore, they must be recognized.

Being perceptive is a skill acquired with experience and practice. Keeping your eyes and ears open to the needs of others and what is going on will help you develop it. Developing the ability to perceive is a part of perception that will enhance your effectiveness.

Body Language
A part of your appearance, something intangible but very real, is your attitude. Your attitude shows everyone who sees you or speaks to you how you feel about others and yourself. You display your attitude in the way you get along with others and interact with them. Body language is a complex communication process. It involves unconscious use of posture, gestures, and other forms of nonverbal communication.

It is possible to contradict a verbal message by an inappropriate facial expression. Even when a person says nothing and thinks that the message being sent is positive, body language will send the true message. Having a good outlook on life carries over into every area and promotes well being.

Facial Expression
Part of perception is being aware of how others think you feel, or see you.
You create this impression partly by your facial expression.
The most common example of a positive happy facial expression is a smile. : )

Eye contact shows that you are interested in giving and receiving messages of mutual concern and interest. The eyes are the windows of the soul. Looking into another's eyes while engaging in conversation permits an open, honest transmission of thoughts and ideas.

Influence
The stress in life can lead to many things. A true understanding of one's Self is the primary key to understanding others. Learn about yourself requires you to take a good hard look at what and Who You Really Are. When assessing yourself, your individual presence may come to mind first.

This presence comprises both your physical self (body) and your self image (how you view yourself). Another dimension of self, is the "self-as-process." This refers to the ongoing process inside us that deals with constant changes, or adjustments, in our lives. Your response to others is dealt with by your social self. You have many different roles with which you identify ardently. Finally, you have an "ideal self." This is what you picture yourself to be, the perfect model you have of yourself.

We are, indeed, complex beings, capable of doing just about anything we choose to. ~

Journal
A good way to begin a basic assessment of yourself is by making a list of all the strengths you have. Keeping a journal, even if only temporary, is another way to vent feelings, look at problems; And realize to better know your True Self.

Knowing yourself will help you become a more complete person and will help you relate to others more effectively. Significant life events, such as major changes create varying levels of stress.
A close friend can be a valuable resource. Simply identifying a source of stress may relieve some of it, but some action must usually be taken to relieve most stressful situations. Activities that help you relax are a basic necessity.

For some, it may be working a jigsaw puzzle, reading, or listening to music; for others, it may be taking a walk. You also need to give yourself credit, a pat on the back occassionally for doing a good job! Developing good habits of coping can include quiet "alone" time for reflecting, meditation, day dreaming (and visualization), imaging, or other techniques that help clear the mind and renew the spirit. The old saying, " a healthy mind ~ a healthy body " is becoming.
Doing this effectively and wisely, you will regularly have time for yourself, "alone time", recreation, meditation, exercise, and spiritual and emotional nurturing. These are all most important for your well being.