The Power of Silence: 25 Instances When Saying Nothing is the Best Response

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Staying silent can be just as powerful as the words you mean to say, like when the act of hugging can be more comforting than saying, “I’m sorry for your loss.”

Unless you can elevate the conversation by pointing out something interesting, missing, or beneficial, it’s best to just observe and learn.

Knowing when to weep quiet: Here are 25 situations where silence is golden

1. Be silent — when you don’t have all the facts.
2. Be silent — if you would be ashamed of your words later.
3. Be silent — when you haven’t verified the story.
4. Be silent — if your words will offend a weaker person.
5. Be silent — if the issue is none of your business.
6. Be silent — when it is time to listen.
7. Be silent — in the heat of anger.
8. Be silent — if you may have to eat your words later.
9. Be silent — when you are tempted to make light of sacred/holy things.
10. Be silent — if your words would convey the wrong impression.
11. Be silent — when you are tempted to joke about wickedness/evil.
12. Be silent — when you are tempted to tell an outright lie.
13. Be silent — if your words will damage someone else’s reputation.
14. Be silent — if your words will damage a friendship.
15. Be silent — when you are feeling critical.
16. Be silent — if you can’t say it without screaming.
17. Be silent — if your words will be a poor reflection of your friends and family.
18. Be silent — if you have already said it more than one time.
19. Be silent — when you are tempted to flatter a wicked person.
20. Be silent — when you are supposed to be working instead.
21. Be silent — when you are unsure of what to say
22. Be silent — If you are confused about your own feelings concerning a matter
23. Be silent — when you don’t want to engage in a fool’s argument. Some squabbles will never be resolved, one must agree to disagree.
24. Be silent — you feel the urge to say an unkind thing, take a few breaths and think of the possible consequences of your words.
25. Be silent — when someone is sharing a meaningful story. Let the friend or person feel ‘heard’ by your silent nodding and sincere eye contact.

Silence can be your best friend during negotiations. Say your piece, then close your mouth, and let the other person come to their own conclusions.

“He who guards his mouth and his tongue, Guards his soul from troubles. Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble.” ~ Proverbs 21:23

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