Painting with words

When someone else is speaking, we are often waiting for our opportunity to say what we think, rather than actually listening.

Don’t rush in. Consider what they’ve said, and think carefully before giving them your response.

Most people speak indirectly, which requires us to infer the actual meaning of what they are trying to say. 

This creates a lot of room for misinterpretation, especially through text or email. 

What we decide to say or not say requires that we interpret as acc...

When small talk dries up, it's often due to "mirroring." In our efforts to be polite, we answer questions directly, repeat their observations, or just agree with whatever they say.

For example, one person would say, "It's a beautiful day," and we might answer, "Yes, it's a beautiful da...