communication

Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.

A witty saying proves nothing.

Strong beliefs, loosely held.

How to compose a successful critical commentary:

• You should attempt to re-express your target’s position so clearly, vividly, and fairly that your target says, “Thanks, I wish I’d thought of putting it that way.
• You should list any points of agreement (especially if they are not matters of general or widespread agreement).
• You should mention anything you have learned from your target.
• Only then are you permitted to say so much as a word of rebuttal or criticism.

The other day I was reading a book and I came across a little anecdote. It was about the great Athenian general Themistocles. Before the battle of Salamis, he was locked in a vigorous debate with a Spartan general about potential strategies for defeating the Persians.

Themistocles was clearly in the minority with his views (but which ultimately turned out to be right and saved Western Civilization). He continued to interrupt and contradict the other generals. Finally, the Spartan general threatened to strike Themistocles if he didn’t shut up and stop. “Strike!” Themistocles shouted back, “But listen!”

The 25 most popular icebreaker questions

1. What was your first job?
2. Have you ever met anyone famous?
3. What are you reading right now?
4. If you could pick up a new skill in an instant what would it be?
5. Who’s someone you really admire?
6. Seen any good movies lately you’d recommend?
7. Got any favorite quotes?
8. Been pleasantly surprised by anything lately?
9. What was your favorite band 10 years ago?
10. What’s your earliest memory?
11. Been anywhere recently for the first time?
12. What’s your favorite family tradition?
13. Who had the most influence on you growing up?
14. What was the first thing you bought with your own money?
15. What’s something you want to do in the next year that you’ve never done before?
16. Seen anything lately that made you smile?
17. What’s your favorite place you’ve ever visited?
18. Have you had your 15 minutes of fame yet?
19. What’s the best advice you’ve ever heard?
20. How do you like your eggs?
21. Do you have a favorite charity you wish more people knew about?
22. Got any phobias you’d like to break?
23. Have you returned anything you’ve purchased recently? Why?
24. Do you collect anything?
25. What’s your favorite breakfast cereal?

Communication problems, you have them when you don't know you have them, once you know then you don't have them.

The person who says he knows what he thinks but cannot express it usually does not know what he thinks.

It is the mark of a charalatan to explain a simple concept in a complex way.