Knowing how you want to communicate isn’t the same as being able to perform competently. The technique of behavior rehearsal provides a way to improve a particular communication skill before you use it in real life. Behavior rehearsal consists of four steps:

a. Define your goal. Begin by identifying the way you want to behave.

b. On your own or with the help of classmates, break the goal into the behaviors it involves. Most goals are made up of several verbal and nonverbal parts. You may be able to identify these parts by thinking about them yourself, by observing others, by reading about them, or by asking others for advice.

c. Practice each behavior before using it in real life.

First, imagine yourself behaving more competently.

Next, practice a new behavior by rehearsing it with others.

d. Try out the behavior in real life. You can increase the odds of success if you follow two pieces of advice when trying out new communication behaviors: Work on only one subskill at a time, and start with easy situations. Don’t expect yourself suddenly to behave flawlessly in the most challenging situations. Begin by practicing your new skills in situations in which you have a chance of success.