“I Don’t Have the Time”

When you try to find a way out of a commitment you're really not looking forward to, bringing up the fact that your schedule is already packed is a justifiable reason.

If you want to cushion the blow a little more, preface this statement with an, “I’d love to, but…”.

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How to Explain Complex Ideas (Like Tech) to Those Who Don't Understand

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Whether you're the household tech support or just an avid researcher who is always trying to teach friends what you learn, explaining complicated topics is tough. Here's how to do it so people can actually understand you. No matter what your profession, you likely have to explain complicated topics to people who don't understand.

Key Ideas

Ask Them If They Want to Learn

Generally speaking, if they're interested, they'll learn better, focus more, and actually take something away from the conversation.

Some people want you to do the work for them and can...

Find Ways to Make It Matter to Them

When you're trying to explain a complicated topic to someone, it's best to show what's in it for them. For technology, you can usually play off of people's desire for security, privacy, or simplicity.

You want to find the hook that catches them and go from there. Keep fishing until you find what matters and the rest of the explanation is easy.

Use Details They Already Know

Find related information people already know and expand on that. For example, understanding what a blog is can be described as "it's a magazine, but online." That's incredibly simplistic, but it gets the point across.

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6 Ways To Become More Knowledgeable - Great Big Minds

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Truly knowledgeable people are a delight to come across. They make excellent conversationalists and give the impression that they are very well-rounded. This is important if you wish to become more likable or are trying to widen your networking circle. Here are 6 ways to become more knowledgeable.

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Become More Knowledgeable

When you don’t understand a topic someone is talking about, don’t try to change the subject or walk away.
Read a newspaper every day

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How to Let Go of Your Regrets | Mark Manson

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Now, this might sound like fun. But I think this "Cocktail Party of You" would actually get quite boring. The reason is that for each version of you that you talk to, you know everything that they know, while they only know a fraction of what you know.

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