Less Talk, Less Mistakes

How about “Talk and have the balls to back it up or else shut up!” the latter being pretty straight forward. Well some people can’t take straight talk. They take it personally. I can’t blame them. I used to feel that way. As a matter of fact, and laugh if you must, I lean more toward having a non confrontational attitude and approach. Until of course it back fired against me.

You see, to be on the safe side, applying the “less talk, less mistake” approach is king, especially if you aren’t comfortable with the topic of discussion. This is where it is best to just listen, stay agnostic and talk less.

However, this approach doesn’t apply when you know your principles are being compromised. You shouldn’t allow your fear of making mistakes hinder you from speaking what is on your mind or in your heart. Remember, if you feel a pang of conviction in you, speak up! Chances are you aren’t making a mistake.

So, in what situations can you apply the “less talk, less mistake” approach? Here are some, to name a few…

Caught in the middle of a husband/wife domestic dispute: This is one big NO! NO! Never should you involve yourself in a husband/wife affair even if you are close to both of them and know that one of them is trying to squeeze information from you. Chances are, you really don’t know the whole situation so shut up!

At your ex’s wedding: Be glad you got invited. Not everyone gets invited to their ex’s wedding. Now when you sit down together with people you don’t know… SHUT UP! Don’t go on a trip to memory lane and solicit sympathy from the people around you. Remember, they attended to share memories with the couple, not you.

On a sales call: The customer has agreed to your proposal and is ready to sign the contract. You let him sign the contract and shut up. Unless he asks you a question, your job should be to move forward with the close.

When you’re wrong: Most of the time, it’s better to admit one’s fault than to talk defensively. Women particularly hate this attitude in men.

On the other hand, there are times when we should trash the whole “less talk, less mistake” approach and allow ourselves to speak straight from the heart. Here are some situations…

At a rally: Hey, you signed up to voice your opinion. Go for it!

In a town hall meeting: If they open the floor to concerns and you have one that really affects a big chunk of you and/or your lifestyle, take to the floor! This isn’t the venue to apply for “martyrdom” or “sainthood”.

At a club: You see a lady or a gentleman you fancy. He/she doesn’t seem to be with company, go ahead and make your smooth and polished move! A simple “Hi” or a sweet smile may do magic. The goal is having a mindset to express yourself when the opportunity arises.

The whole idea here is for you to be able to determine when to keep your mouth shut and when to speak up. Yes you will make mistakes finding that sweet spot and yes practicing this application may take you to rough waters in the beginning. However, when everything comes to fruition, you’ll be amazed as to what you’ve become. People will learn to respect and trust you. They may also come to admire you for your steadfastness and diplomacy.

Remember, making mistakes are okay as long as a lesson is learned from it.