You’re Talking A Lot But You’re Saying Very Little
I know people who talk a lot, I know people who say a lot, and I know people who talk a lot and say very little. And just in case you’re wondering, there is a difference between talking and actually saying something.
My gorgeous 15-month-old daughter talks a lot. In fact, I just recently named a website after a gibberish word that she spouted off while she was trouncing around in our living room. But although she talks a lot, she actually says very little. On occasion she says “Mama”, “Papa”, “Nana”, or “Hi.” In fact, when we’re walking through the grocery store you had better respond with a warm “Hi” or she’ll keep repeating it louder and louder.
Emma talks a lot. She says very little. But that’s alright. She’s only 15 months old. We expect that and if you’re like most people you probably think it’s cute or you’re thinking back to when your children were at that stage of development.
The problem isn’t with Emma talking a lot and saying very little. It’s with you doing it.
Every time you say something it either adds to or takes away from the level of influence that you have with your friends, families, coworkers, subordinates and with both current and potential clients. When you use your words to encourage, educate, inform, show kindness, or share value, then people will stop and take notice when you speak. When you use your words to brag on yourself, to argue, to ridicule, to be unkind, or to complain and whine, then people will learn to tune you out as you approach them.
Choose your words carefully and think before your speak.
Onibalusi Bamidele
Really great post Nick!
This is absolutely true, especially on the internet because anything you say can hardly be swallowed.
Thanks a lot for the great post,
-Onibalusi
Nicholas Cardot
Right on, Onibalusi. The internet is the perfect place for people to spout off nonsense but those who use their opportunities to provide words filled with knowledge, wisdom and care will find a following.
Casey
Words have great power, As a matter of fact the power of life or death is held in your tongue. Use that gift for good and improving, leading and helping others. Thanks for the great post.
Nicholas Cardot
You’re welcome, Casey. People really underestimate the power of their words and in turn they waste so much time talking about useless things that chisel away at their influence. Use your words to build the lives of those with whom you interact.
Richard Scott
Absolutely true. My site educates. I know some bloggers who are BRAGGERS that just drive me crazy. All they brag about is how much traffic they get and how little they have to work to get it, and everything they touch turns to gold. -Barfs- lol
What’s the website name?
Nicholas Cardot
Nobody likes braggers but everyone loves being bragged on so use your words to uplift, encourage and brag about the people around you and they’ll perk up and pay attention.
Dagaloo.com It’s a work in progress.
Bruce Teague
I’m not a super chatty guy so when I have input at a meeting it usually holds more weight. People know I don’t spout out fluff and non-sense. I’d rather drift off and think about something completely useless.
Chose your words carefully and people will actually listen to them.
Nicholas Cardot
I think you just shot yourself in the foot with that comment. You just convinced that your words hold weight and then you told me that you’d “rather drift off and think about something completely useless” which in itself makes your words hold less weight. LOL.
Of course, I know that you’re just goofing around. That was probably the intent of your joke anyways. Ultimately though, you are right. “Choose your words carefully and people will actually listen to them.”
Joe Boyle
Great post, Nick, and even more – a fantastic reference.
I have, from time to time, caught myself saying very little in a long string of words. All that matters is that I, now, am realizing it and can take action to prevent it.
Gines
Been a long since I commented, Nick. How are you?
I’m actually the opposite. I’m the silent killer as my colleagues refer to me. The ghost that walks according to my former manager.
So opposite but I still get the respect. Aside from the reciprocal respect, my actions speaks louder than words. I guess that’s one good thing about being a killer. Silent, I mean.
Have a good one.
Ryan Coelho
Awesome article Nicholas!
I really enjoy your blog so keep it up!
Anonymous
This is advice that many people who argue on the internet should take. So many people type up walls of text, but put so little substance in them.