You talk too much? Do you realize that you keep talking and talking even when it is obvious that everyone else in the room would like some silence? You're not the only one. Here are some tips for learning to talk less and listen more, both at work and in private life.
Steps
Step 1. Listen to what other people are saying
This doesn't mean that you shouldn't speak, but that you need to focus on what they say and seriously try to understand their ideas. Often, while someone is talking, particularly talkative people tend to think about what to say next. Don't worry about it, just try to listen.
Step 2. Instead of interrupting the person you are listening to, try to give them non-verbal feedback
Give her a nod, smile, tilt your head slightly and look at your interlocutor. You can also make it clear that you are actively listening with simple interjections, such as "ah-ah" (but don't overdo it!)
Step 3. In the normal pauses that occur during a conversation, don't feel obligated to fill the void
A little silence is fine. Normally, in these moments, people reflect on what has just been said, or the topic has simply exhausted itself.
Step 4. Ask new questions to start a new conversation instead of continuing to talk
This way you show interest in what surrounds you, and your interlocutors will feel better, because they will have the feeling that someone is listening to them and is interested in what they say.
Step 5. When someone asks you a question, respond by giving only some information about yourself
The trick is to stop before people's eyes blur. If you realize that this is happening, then immediately ask someone else for their opinion or involve another person in the conversation by inviting them to share some topic that you know is inherent.
Step 6. Think before you speak
Before starting to speak, always give yourself three seconds, so that you can ask yourself if your contribution is inherent. If it isn't, then keep silent.
Step 7. Words are power and generate vibrations, and speaking too much expands this power and hinders concentration
The more we talk, the more our mind wanders, and consequently it becomes more and more difficult to control our thoughts. Talking too much leads to some unnecessary observations that give rise to negative thoughts.
Step 8. Always keep in mind that people who talk less get more
This is a universal observation; successful people generally listen a lot, and speak moderately.
Advice
- Remember that it is better to remain silent and let people think you are stupid than to talk and give them that certainty.
- Tell yourself that you have two ears and only one mouth, so you should listen and speak accordingly.
- Most people who talk a lot do so out of anxiety. Finding out what your anxieties are and addressing them might be a good solution. Don't drink too much at social events; alcohol loosens the tongue, removes inhibitions and clouds common sense.
