Most people have difficulty accepting silence. This is referred to in our story on Scarred Foot included in Learn How to Listen and again in Listen Don't Talk.
Remaining silent allows you to retain or regain your composure and control. Many people believe in the old maxim, "Still waters run deep." You should not rely on this entirely because still waters can disguise stupidity.
Practicing to maintain silence in a meeting yields much suppressed information from less influential group members. Notice how important this is in a brainstorming exercise where all criticism is deferred until all options have been presented.
Have a set of explanations or comebacks ready for when anyone aggressively challenges your silence.
We try to take the high road with, "I shall not dignify that with a response." Sometimes this works but, not when overused.
Refusing to return or accept a phone call or pretending not to hear a request are tactics fraught with danger. All consequences should be considered.
Stories from members will add great value to these maxims.
Please post your story by emailing it to max@unclemaxsays.com.
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