How To Think Before You Speak? 7 Things That Will Help

Thinking Before You Speak

Everyone has experienced a haunting moment when they have said just a word too many. Every person has felt the shame of saying the wrong thing at the wrong time. It is human to make these errors, but they still need attention and correction. Learning how to think before you speak is an acquired skill that needs time to develop correctly. Fortunately, you can get better at picking your words today and kind words can go a long way. Remind yourself how important your words are and how it can be a good habit.

Learning how to think before you speak is an acquired skill that needs time to develop correctly

1. Listen To Them Speak

Listen to learn something about the other person. Don’t listen to figure out what you should say next. The next time you are involved in a meeting, a conversation with someone, or even an argument, stay calm and try to use the opportunity to learn what you can about the person speaking to you. Don’t be that person who doesn’t let anyone speak.

When it is your turn to talk, you will be naturally engaged enough to want to say something meaningful and appropriate. We need to think things through and don’t rush it. Is what you’re about to say necessary? A good speech can only begin with excellent listening skills. Go ahead. Try hard to listen and become a good conversationalist by doing so.

2. Know What Topics Are Sensitive Issues To Other People.

When you’re talking to someone else, you will need to know what discussion topics require particular sensitivity. Sensitive topics don’t always need to be avoided, but they certainly don’t need to be continuously addressed. You can ask questions. When they are brought up in conversation, special care is necessary sometimes. Try to focus the majority of your conversation around the weather, good food, nice restaurants to visit sometime, or hobbies.

Try not to plunge too eagerly into money-related matters, mental health, politics, sex, or religion unless someone asks. It’s also important to be somewhat careful when you talk about family matters; those who grew up in difficult circumstances or those who recently buried a family member may find family matters hard to discuss. Instead, why not pay someone a compliment and keep the conversation free from anything controversial?

3. Know Your Own Triggers.

It’s normal for people to feel unusual stress when it comes to certain topics. To handle your triggers before you speak, think about what discussion topics make your heart jump and what you are going to say. Perhaps you are not one of those people who like to reminisce about their childhood. It could be that you get uneasy about discussions related to health or sickness.

Maybe you are dealing with an awful boss or a season of unemployment, and just talking about work makes you feel bad and you break out into a sweat. To gain a more in-depth control of your speech, make a list of topics that make you anxious, consider how to talk through them, and take deep breaths. You may even want to figure out ways to change the subject, like excusing yourself and take a long walk around.

“Think twice before you speak, because your words and influence will plant the seed of either success or failure in the mind of another” – Napoleon Hill

4. Don’t Assume The Worst.

Suppose your spouse offhandedly mentions that they are always under pressure from work and housework obligations. Suddenly, you start feeling your blood pressure rise. What could they mean by that? Are they saying you don’t do enough to lighten the load? You feel like there’s a desire to argue, that you are helping out as much as you possibly can and you can make them feel good.

Instead of launching into a defence, try instead to hear the speaker’s feelings, even though you feel like it’s the right thing to do. Likely, they don’t want to accuse you or put you on the spot. Perhaps they are just feeling pressured and need to vent. Think before you speak in a way that puts the other person on high alert. They may just need your attention and compassion.

5. Become Discreet And Trustworthy.

I find it hard to develop this trait. Few people give out gold medals for qualities like dependability or discretion, so it is not easy for people to feel motivated to keep secrets. Furthermore, sharing a choice tidbit of gossip can feel great. Gossiping can make you feel relevant and interesting. If you feel left out from a circle or a work culture, seems like gossip may even be your ticket to inclusion. Saying something, however little extra the gossip, can completely wreck any trust built up over time.

Before you share an embarrassing story involving an acquaintance or a loved one, you need to stop and take a minute to think: if it were me, would I want to get talked about in this way? Is it something hurtful to bring up? You don’t want to deal with the repercussions of a hurt person confronting you about your bad behaviour. That sounds like a no. Sometimes, it’s best to remain silent if you don’t have anything nice to say.

As the saying goes: If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.

6. Brush Up On Cultural Differences.

Making some mistakes while learning about a new environment or culture is normal. Many people will forgive innocent misunderstandings. Still, it may be useful for you to read up on countries you may visit in the future. If you are going to a house with people from a different culture, consider where they came from and how to understand them as best you can.

This will help you adjust your speech accordingly. In some cultures, speaking quietly is particularly important. Be aware of your body language. Knowing what is expected in other countries will prevent embarrassment and wounded feelings.

7. Be Gentle With Yourself And Apologize When Necessary

Nobody is perfect. You will make mistakes because you are human. It’s not the end of the world. Even so, it is a good idea to say that you are sorry when you make another mistake. If you simply tripped over your words, a brief and light “sorry” may be just enough to fix the issue. If you have become the occasion of an offense, you will need to be more earnest and serious. Don’t be flippant. Don’t say something like, “I’m sorry you felt bad.” This makes the other person feel trivialized for reacting to your mistake.

Take full ownership for what you said. Try something like “I ought not to have said _. I’m sorry for what I said earlier.” This shows sincerity and a sense of personal responsibility. Make sure to have eye contact and speak clearly. Do not continue to address your motivations behind your offense, as this will dilute the strength of your apology. You’ll be able to live with yourself better this way.

Conclusion

Remember that thinking and speaking well is a skill that can be learned. It does not come naturally to many, but it can be developed by anyone willing to improve. Try using the THINK acronym and always ask yourself if what you say is true, helpful, inspiring, necessary, kind? Don’t expect everyone to be your best friend or instant change. Constant effort may bring impressive results, so don’t forget to stop and think before you speak. It’s always better to close your mouth than to say the wrong thing!