The Power of Saying Less: Why Less is Often More
In today’s world, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that the more we say, the better understood we will be. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, the value and power of saying less should not be underestimated.
Saying less allows us to be more concise and clear in our communication. When we’re concise, our message is more likely to be understood and remembered by the recipient. This is because our brains process information more effectively when it is presented in a simple and straightforward manner.
Moreover, saying less can also demonstrate confidence and control. People who are confident in their message are able to express it succinctly and effectively, without the need for excessive elaboration or explanation. This can make a strong impression on others and increase their respect for us.
One leader who was known for speaking very little was former U.S. President, George Washington. Despite his reserved nature, he was highly respected for his leadership during the American Revolution and was referred to as a “man of few words.” He was known for being thoughtful and deliberate in his speech, only speaking when he had something important to say. This made his words carry more weight and contributed to his reputation as an effective leader.