when to shut up

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Silence is a greatly underestimated source of power. In silence, we can hear not only what is being said, but also what is not being said. In silence, it can be easier to reach the truth. Harvard Business Review

Communication is an art and in reality, communication is hard work, just like working out and maintaining self-control. 

If Rudyard Kipling was correct that "Words are, of course, the most powerful drug used by mankind," then many of us are addicted. When you are having an important discussion with your family, overtalking can lead to a bad argument (TRUST!). It’s a GG for the fam. Talking costs us credibility and relationships. People who go on and on appear to undervalue others' contributions, lack self-awareness, seem self-absorbed, and have low confidence. So, how do we know when we are talking more than we should and when is the right moment to shut up? 

I’m no expert on this. However, from what I’ve gathered through family arguments during Covid-19, as soon as both parties reach an agreement, stop talking immediately. Yep, just stop and move on to a different topic. No more self-justification and explaining. The more you dwell on the topic, the wearier two parties will get. All too often, people think they need to provide additional context to run a conversation. Don’t be an idiot. If people want a detailed answer, they will ask for it. 

Saying less is more. The little silence here and there during conversations will keep your audience engaged and interested in the topic. Keep working hard at your communication. It will pay off eventually.