“I don’t speak because I have the power to speak; I speak because I don’t have the power to remain silent.”
Rabbi A.Y. Kook (1865-1935) ― Orthodox rabbi/Scholar
Read Story“I don’t speak because I have the power to speak; I speak because I don’t have the power to remain silent.”
Rabbi A.Y. Kook (1865-1935) ― Orthodox rabbi/Scholar
This quote means that I am connected to others simply by our shared humanity and it is my responsibility to speak of for the rights of others.
“The squeaky wheel gets the grease.”
American proverb
This reminds us that sometimes you have to be vocal about what you want in order to get it.
“Loose lips sink ships.”
Mother (quoting World War II poster)
Nobody likes a tattle tale and as one grows up, earning trust of others is important. Being able to keep your word is important in building relationships, both personal and professional.
“First seek to understand, then to be understood.”
Stephen Covey (1932-2012) ― Educator/Author/Businessman
This reminds me that persuasion begins with my ability to listen, rather than my ability to convey a message.
“Listen carefully, to be a good communicator.”
Friend
I always like to talk but I got a very good critical feedback about my communication style from my wife who spend a lot of time with me and my friends.
“We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak.”
Epictetus (50-135 AD) ― Greek philosopher
Listen 80% of the time and talk 20% of the time. This works in business and in real life. Ask questions and listen to the answer.
“What I know is I don’t know them; I only have information.”
Anonymous
I always like to have a global mindset because I love to live and travel different countries. Through that moment, I always feel free. By living and working in Hong Kong and US, I often...
“Call no matter what, even if you only have one free minute to say ‘hello, I’m thinking about you, I love you’.”
Wife
Before my wife and I were engaged, we lived long distance for four years (I was in the Army and she was working in LA). Before I moved out of LA to enter the Army,...
“Ask and it shall be given you.”
Bible verse, Matthew 7:7–8
Most people want to help others as much as they can. Most people will also be flattered that you think they have something to teach you. Ask for help, coffee chats, etc. You’ll be surprised...
“When you speak you repeat what you already know, if you listen you might learn something new.”
Unknown
The point of this is talk less and listen more. This phrase reminds me to stop and take a moment, to take in the countering point of view and understand what that reasoning is.