Hello Reader
Is this a workshop or a theatre ticket?
Is education and training a form of entertainment for you? Do you watch the video, attend the workshop, feel inspired for ten minutes, and then go right back to doing things the way you always have?
Let's flip that right now. I want you to see real and impactful change when implementing these ideas!
Let's try something fun this week. Stop talking. Most people find this excruciating (especially me!)
When you rush to fill quiet moments, you aren't being helpful; you are accidentally "power-steering" the conversation. You are telling your team that you value speed over depth.
You need to let a question or a thought breathe.
Often, the first people to speak usually offer the "polite" or "safe" answers. The the real breakthrough is almost always hiding behind that first uncomfortable wave of silence. If you can’t sit with the quiet, you’ll never hear the ideas that haven't been rehearsed.
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Why wait?
Extending silence after a question from one second to just three seconds significantly increases the complexity and quality of the responses you receive. Bonkers! Apparently, it’s the simplest way to upgrade the collective IQ of your meeting.
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QUESTION TIME!
The next time you ask a question, mentally count to eight before you say another word. This is much longer than it sounds. If nobody speaks by eight, do not answer the question yourself. Instead, say: "I’ll give everyone another thirty seconds to think before we share."
- Ask the question clearly.
- Plant your feet and wait.
- Observe the room without judging the silence.
- Allow "thinkers" the time they need to catch up to the "talkers."
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If you can survive sixty seconds of silence without checking your pulse, your emails, or the nearest exit, you’ve nailed the art of doing absolutely nothing for the greater good!
I'd love to hear how you go and if there are any quiet voices you have suddenly be heard. It's amazing the difference when someone doesn't feel rushed into their answer.
What is one conversation you have been putting off that you want to tackle this week?
Hit reply and let me know. I read every single email, and I cannot wait to hear how you are putting these ideas into practice.
Let's get to work,
Rebecca
