Do you talk too much? Do you find yourself gabbing on even when it is obvious to you that everyone in the room wants you to shut up? You are not alone. Here are some tips to help you talk less and listen more in social situations or at work.
1Listen to what other people are saying. That doesn't just mean not talking, it means actively listening and considering their ideas seriously. Very often people who talk too much spend the time when others are speaking thinking about what they are going to say next. Don't worry about that, just listen.Ad
2Instead of interrupting, give non-verbal feedback to the person you are listening to. Nod, smile, tilt your head over so slightly to one side and look at them. You can also show you are actively listening by making appropriate noises like "uh-huh" - but don't over do it!
3When pauses occur in the natural flow of the conversation, don't feel that you must instantly fill the void. Silence is ok. Usually it is there because people are digesting what has been said before, or because the topic has been exhausted.
4Ask questions to initiate a new topic instead of holding forth yourself. By doing this, you are showing interest in those around you. It makes people feel good when they are asked a question that shows someone has been listening to them or is interested in them.
5When someone asks you a question, answer them and give a little of yourself to the conversation. The trick is to stop before people's eyes glaze over. If you feel that start to happen then ask someone else for their opinion, or draw them into the conversation by inviting them to share something that you know is relevant.
6Think before you speak. Always give yourself three seconds before you start talking to ask yourself if your contribution to the conversation is relevant. If it is not, keep quiet.
7Words are power, they vibrate so speaking too much dilates the power within as well as affects our ability to focus, the more we speak the more our mind wanders as a result it becomes increasingly difficult to control our thoughts. Speaking a lot results in some unnecessary remarks which further give rise to negative thoughts.
8Always notice people who speak less accomplish more, that is a universal observation, very successful people are good listeners first & perhaps moderate speakers.Ad
We could really use your help!
- Remember that it is better to keep quiet and have the world think you a fool, than to open your mouth and remove all doubt.
- Tell yourself that you have two ears and one mouth and that you should listen and speak accordingly.
- Most people who talk too much do so because they are anxious. Finding out what you are anxious about and addressing the issue might be a good way forward. Do not drink too much at social functions. Alcohol loosens the tongue, removes inhibitions and dulls the wits.
Categories: Speaking and Listening Skills
Recent edits by: Yoolivia, Lois Wade, Writingtoyou
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