Guide to Power talk!
How do you get your point of view across to people? And in such a way that they understand it and appreciate it? If we can do this effectively, we are sure to lead a successful and peaceful life.
Though the question seems simple enough, finding an answer to this is a very tough task. (Read my earlier post on Learning the Hard Way as well). As usual, after quite some years of learning and unlearning, I have realized certain things about communication between people, which I am trying to put into practice. Whatever I have written here doesn't mean I am an expert in following them. It just means that I am trying and trying, to put it into practice!
First and foremost, I have realized we can never change anyone; we can only change ourselves. Change has to come from within oneself. We can only aid or kick-start that, by pointing out what is what and trying to influence. Beyond that, its up to every individual. So, we should never set out to talk to anyone with the intention of changing them.
Also sometimes, change in our actions convey a more powerful message than our words. That brings us to the next point - actions speak louder than words. If my actions and words are poles apart, then naturally, my words won't be believed. Also, if people have a bad impression on me due to my actions, they won't believe my words. So, we need to be conscious of our actions and what we convey through them. There should be no big disconnect between our thinking, words and action, which is what Lord Rama practiced throughout his life.
Next, timing. There are times to speak and there are times not to speak. We need to think of talking to someone only if the following conditions are met:
Now, coming to the actual talking, it needs to be straight, sweet, simple and short - as far as possible. All these four S's are essential and important for a successful communication.
I am probably one who violates many, if not all of these. But am still trying to put them into practice. As they say, to learn is one thing and to put it into practice is quite another. It is a process and it will take time. Patience, determination to get it right and focus will help us achieve it.
Well, that completes my guide to power talk. What do you think? Any comments?
Though the question seems simple enough, finding an answer to this is a very tough task. (Read my earlier post on Learning the Hard Way as well). As usual, after quite some years of learning and unlearning, I have realized certain things about communication between people, which I am trying to put into practice. Whatever I have written here doesn't mean I am an expert in following them. It just means that I am trying and trying, to put it into practice!
First and foremost, I have realized we can never change anyone; we can only change ourselves. Change has to come from within oneself. We can only aid or kick-start that, by pointing out what is what and trying to influence. Beyond that, its up to every individual. So, we should never set out to talk to anyone with the intention of changing them.
Also sometimes, change in our actions convey a more powerful message than our words. That brings us to the next point - actions speak louder than words. If my actions and words are poles apart, then naturally, my words won't be believed. Also, if people have a bad impression on me due to my actions, they won't believe my words. So, we need to be conscious of our actions and what we convey through them. There should be no big disconnect between our thinking, words and action, which is what Lord Rama practiced throughout his life.
Next, timing. There are times to speak and there are times not to speak. We need to think of talking to someone only if the following conditions are met:
- Both of us are in a clear, peaceful state of mind.
- Both of us are not physically ill or tired.
- And most important, the person has time and is open to talk - about the subject.
Now, coming to the actual talking, it needs to be straight, sweet, simple and short - as far as possible. All these four S's are essential and important for a successful communication.
I am probably one who violates many, if not all of these. But am still trying to put them into practice. As they say, to learn is one thing and to put it into practice is quite another. It is a process and it will take time. Patience, determination to get it right and focus will help us achieve it.
Well, that completes my guide to power talk. What do you think? Any comments?
True. And one more point to add is not to become very emotional or attached to your point of view. We need to listen to others view as well. May be you can write a post on that ;)
ReplyDeleteYes, very true. We need to listen to others as well. We must first seek to understand and then to be understood!
ReplyDelete