Episode #62 Think Before Speaking

Three Problems

• Most of what we do in life, we do without thinking.
• Even if forgiveness comes quickly, the pain of a thoughtless comment may last for a lifetime.
• The critical and condescending words that have been spoken to us have shaped the way we view ourselves.

Three Principles

• Thinking before speaking is especially important before expressing frustration and making promises.
• Our words communicate the weight of who we are.
• There is a right time and place for every conversation.

Three Practices

• Plan your tact, timing, tone, and technique prior to initiating potentially difficult conversations.
• Wait five minutes after you have typed that controversial post or that frustrated text prior to clicking ‘send.’
• Routinely ask yourself the questions, “Is what I’m about to say or post or text going to help or hurt?” and, “Will this comment strengthen or compromise my character?”