It might get you in trouble if you don't know when to stop talking.Learning when to be silent is a valuable skill.You will allow others to contribute to the conversation.You will become a better listener if you prevent hurt feelings.People are more likely to listen to what you have to say if you speak.
Step 1: Say your first thoughts, but don't say anything at all.
It can be hard to not respond when you want to.To get over this, imagine how the conversation would play out and think about what you were going to say.Don't say what you're going to do.If you get emotional or upset and your immediate urge is to respond, this is a really effective technique.
Step 2: Speak and write down your thoughts.
Writing down your thoughts in a journal is a great way to keep your mouth shut.It's possible to put your thoughts down and not feel like you have to talk.You can either throw away what you wrote or use the note to say something.Your note could say, "Why did you schedule that party without asking me?"Sometimes you're thoughtless.Throw the note away and say, "I wish you hadn't scheduled the party without talking with me first."
Step 3: Listen active.
Pay attention to how the person is saying something.Look for non-verbal signals, such as their facial expressions or their hands.If they know you won't cut them off, they will feel more comfortable speaking and you will have a better idea of what they're trying to communicate.Don't interrupt someone if they say, "I'm not sure if I can babysit for you."You should not press them on the idea if they are also frowning and fiddling with their hands.
Step 4: Meditate to calm your mind.
If you keep thinking of things you'd like to say, it will take some effort to keep your mouth shut.Train your mind to calm down.You could try meditating, reading, jogging or painting.
Step 5: Don't whine or complain, keep quiet.
People will see you as a whiner if you speak out about everything.People will be less likely to listen to you if you lose some respect.If you complain about the weather, it's because you can't change it.
Step 6: If someone is being rude or thoughtless, hold your tongue.
Everyone has days where they are short-tempered or go through a challenge.Let the person say what they need to and try to be kind.The person will appreciate that you didn't highlight their bad behavior.
Step 7: Leave gossip.
Don't talk about others behind their backs when you're around the water cooler or in the hallway.If you gossip and get into trouble, people are less likely to trust you.It is better to stop gossiping.Gossiping is harmful.The information you're sharing could make someone angry.
Step 8: If you are going to say something harmful, stop yourself.
If you react in anger, you are more likely to create conflict.It's better to not say anything at all.If you say something that makes another person angry, it's a good idea to keep your mouth shut.
Step 9: If you're making a plan or negotiating a deal, don't speak.
If it involves other people's decisions, keep sensitive information to yourself.Information about a new hire, offer you've been given, or group project should not be discussed.If plans aren't final yet, others might not like that you're telling them.You will feel silly if things don't work out.Instead of saying "I'm going to be the lead in the play because I don't think anyone else has the experience," stay quiet until you know the outcome of casting.
Step 10: Don't brag about yourself.
Don't bring the focus of the conversation back to yourself if you want to listen to someone talk about their own accomplishments.People will appreciate your actions if someone else praises you.Don't say "I was the one who closed the big deal so you all have me to thank."If you don't say anything, someone else will mention the part you played in the success and it will look better.
Step 11: If you don't know the answer, keep quiet.
You probably answer questions that you don't know the answer to if you're talking too much.Try to stop doing this.If you can't move the conversation forward, most people will tell you that you're wasting everyone's time.Does anyone else have an idea?
Step 12: Don't talk to fill it, appreciate silence.
Wait for someone else to speak if no one is speaking.If you practice, you will be able to keep your mouth shut.A person might be thinking of something to say or they may be building the courage to join the conversation.
Step 13: Don't overshare with strangers.
It can be difficult to know when you're talking too much.You should pay attention to how much information you share with people you don't know.You don't have to tell them everything about your life.The other person's reaction should be watched as well.If you're talking too much, they may look away, look bored, or try to walk off.This is true with people you don't know very well.People can feel overwhelmed if you give too much information about yourself.
Step 14: Give yourself time to think.
If you want to speak with intention, try not to say anything that crosses your mind.Decide how you're going to say it.You will appear more confident if you don't stop and say "um" a lot.
Step 15: Ask questions.
If you talk too much, you won't ask questions or give people enough time to answer.If everyone is interacting with each other, you will have a more fulfilling conversation.Wait until the person actually responds to a meaningful question.Don't answer the question for them.In meetings, negotiations, or class, asking questions is important.
Step 16: If you can add value to the conversation, speak.
Ask yourself if you're contributing to the conversation by listening.There's no need to repeat what someone else has said.Wait until you can say something useful.People value what you have to say if you practice this.