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10 Principles to Make Wise Decisions – Part 2

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In this Wisdom Note, we will continue our series about making wise decisions. As with any skill in life, making wise decisions comes with practice and experience. Many times that experience is gained by making unwise decisions. The fact is that if we learn from this experience, then we will make increasingly wise decisions in all areas of life. If you agree that God is the author of wisdom, then decisions which are made in the light of God’s word are stable and show wisdom.

Since it our desire to make wise decisions in all that we do, our 10 waypoints on this wisdom trail will help us to choose wisdom instead of folly in our decision-making. It is time for us to break camp now as we continue on our trail of making wise decisions. On this trek, we begin with waypoint 3 of 10, so let’s get started. Because of my faith walk, I will base our discussions of decision-making on Biblical principles.

3. Is There a Time Pressure Forcing Me To Make An Impulsive Decision?

Unless it is absolutely unavoidable do not make a decision if someone is pressuring you with a deadline or scarcity. Scarcity and time pressure schemes are two of the most effective and dangerous methods that are used to try and force us into making decisions. Rarely are either a good reason to make a decision. In order to make a wise decision ask yourself, “Would I make this decision now if there was neither the scarcity or limited time pressure?” If the answer is “no,” then do not fall prey to these tactics.

Proverbs 19:2, “Enthusiasm without knowledge is no good; haste makes mistakes.”

Proverbs 21:5, “Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty.”

Points to consider if there is time or scarcity pressures put on you to make a decision:

  • Never fall prey to the “once in a lifetime” deals and the lure of instant gratification. There will always be other opportunities to make the same decision if it is a decision that you need to make.
  • Don’t let the fear of missing out drive your decision. You will only miss out if you make a decision that is wrong
  • When in doubt, choose not to decide at this time, which is a decision itself.

4. What Possible Motives Are Driving My Decision?

When you are faced with a decision to make and want to make a wise decision, analyze what the motives are that are driving you to make the decision. Be brutally honest with yourself. We all are masters at self-delusion and rationalizing the decisions that we desire to make. To make wise decisions, you must be honest about your motives for that decision.

Proverbs 16:2, “People may be pure in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their motives.”

Proverbs 20:9, “Who can say, ‘I have cleansed my heart; I am pure and free from sin’?”

Points to consider in order to make wise decisions:

  • Acknowledge that you have “blind spots.”
  • Honestly assess your motives, both good and bad.
  • Give others permission to speak into your life.

5. How Should Past Experiences Inform My Decision?

The best predictor of future decisions are the decisions that you have made in the past. Take an honest assessment of your past decisions and ask yourself. “Were they wise? Were the outcomes successful? Will I be pleased with making the same types of decisions this time?”

Proverbs 26:11, “As a dog returns to its vomit, so a fool repeats his foolishness.”

Proverbs 17:10, “A single rebuke does more for a person of understanding than a hundred lashes on the back of a fool.”

Questions to consider in order to make wise decisions:

  • What are the patterns of behavior or “triggers” on previous decisions that I have made?
  • How does my family background and training affect how I make decisions?
  • Have I learned from previous decision-making mistakes?

6. What Is The Collective Counsel Of My Community?

Since all of us are prone to self-delusion and rationalization of any decisions that we make, it is wise to seek counsel from those who have shown wisdom and have experience in the particular area that you need to make a decision. This may be different people for different decisions that you need to make. Be sure to seek out those that are wiser and may disagree with you and gain their insight. Be careful of receiving advice from friends or close associates that may not have wisdom in a particular area. As an example, if you have a crucial financial decision to make, seek out a wise and successful person that has a proven track record. Do not seek advice from someone that lives paycheck to paycheck.

Proverbs 11:14, “Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in having many advisers.”

Proverbs 18:1 “Unfriendly people care only about themselves; they lash out at common sense.”

Proverbs 18:2 “Fools have no interest in understanding; they only want to air their own opinions.”

Points to consider:

  • Restrict those that you seek advice from to individuals that have proven successful in that area of life.
  • Don’t try to convince that person of what you desire to do. Seek open insight.
  • Provide all the information that is needed to this person, so that they can provide you with honest and candid feedback.

Consider these first six waypoints in your decision-making process in order to make wise decisions. Next we will continue on the trail as we explore the final 4 principles for making wise decisions.

10 Principles to Make Wise Decisions – Part 1

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In this Wisdom Note, we will begin a new series about making wise decisions. Every day each of us is faced with numerous choices, which require us to make decisions. Our objective in producing Wisdom-Trek is not just to help you make decisions, but to teach you to make wise decisions, and even more so to make legacy-creating decisions.

Wisdom is an attribute that we should all strive for in our lives. As mentioned before, I personally rely on the Bible, which I consider to be God’s Word, as my basis and foundation for wisdom.

Gaining wisdom is not unlike establishing other good habits in our lives, whether those habits are eating properly, staying physically fit, or learning some new skill. We perfect those habits by properly practicing them each day. In the same manner, the more that we make wise decisions, the wiser we become, and the easier it is to make wise decisions in the future.

“Making wise decisions can become a habit in your life.”

While the Bible, other literature, and information we study do not address every decision that we will face each day specifically, there are principles in the Bible and elsewhere that help us to foster a wise decision-making matrix within our lives. The question that we are all faced with is what should we do when the Bible doesn’t seem to speak directly to the situations we face and the decisions we need to make?

In our next couple of Wisdom Notes, we will stop by 10 waypoints that will help us to make wise decisions when there are not clear commands, guidelines, or direction. Because of my faith walk, I will base our discussions of decision-making on Biblical principles. If you happen to have a different basis for your value system, these points will still apply to your decision-making process.

Our first waypoint question is:

1. What are the principles that should form my decision-making matrix?

We first need to understand where wisdom ultimately comes from. Although there are many wise individuals from whom we can glean practical sage advice, when you look for the basis of this wisdom, it is rooted in the Bible. God has blessed certain individuals with the gift of presenting this wisdom in ways that help us to understand it better. Based on this premise, we acknowledge and understand that God is the ultimate source of that wisdom as is described in these verses.

Proverbs 2:6, “For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”

Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”

Now that we understand where true wisdom comes from, we need to determine some basic guidelines for making decisions. What is the eventual purpose of any decision that we need to make? Many decisions that we make may have multiple purposes, and we need to determine what they are. The final conclusion of all decisions that we make, whether they are large or small, should be to bring glory to God.

1 Corinthians 10:31, “So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”

When making decisions on business partners, financial partners, or a marriage partner, we need to be very careful who we associate with, especially if the partner(s) will exercise some control over our decision-making process. All partnering on life’s trek should only be done only with those individuals that share our same values and beliefs, otherwise, there is potential for conflict that impacts our values, beliefs, and, ultimately, our integrity.

2 Corinthians 6:14, “Don’t team up with those who are unbelievers. How can righteousness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness?”

Proverbs 22:7, “Just as the rich rule the poor, so the borrower is a servant to the lender.”

When making decisions, the outcomes should always be honorable and right. Do not make decisions that are contrary to your values.

Philippians 4:8, “And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.”

The preliminary questions that you need to ask as you are forming your decision-making matrix are:

  • Does the Bible have a clear direction on this, or does it conform to the guidelines listed above?
  • Who do I consider wise and knowledgeable that can help me better understand what God’s Word says about this decision?
  • Am I making a decision that is contrary to what wise counsel has recommended?

2. Do I have all the facts about the decision that I am making?

When you need to make a decision and you have processed the first step, then make sure that you have all the facts needed to make a wise decision. I realize that you could become too anal and never make a decision due to paralysis by analysis, but you should not be too hasty to decide until you have all the facts needed.

Proverbs 18:13, “Spouting off before listening to the facts is both shameful and foolish.”

Proverbs 18:17, “The first to speak in court sounds right — until the cross-examination begins.”

Questions to consider when determining if you have all the facts:

  • Have I asked enough of the appropriate questions for this decision?
  • Have I fallen prey to “wishful thinking” or let my emotions get the best of me?
  • Have I remembered that there are two sides to every story and considered all possibilities?

Consider these first two waypoints in your decision-making process in order to make wise decisions. We will continue on the trail as we explore the 10 principles for making wise decisions in our next note.

It’s the Life in Your Years that Counts – Part 2

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In this Wisdom Note, we will continue to explore how to live each day to the fullest because, in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years. Regardless of what your life has been in the past, it is what you make of your life from this point forward that will make a positive impact on your world. This is what God thought about the Prostitute Rahab in James’ letter to the Jews in Chapter 2 verses 25-26, “Rahab the prostitute is another example. She was shown to be right with God by her actions when she hid those messengers and sent them safely away by a different road. Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.”

5. Believe in someone or something; don’t give up on your faith.

Trust Yourself

In times of stress and challenge, we all question our choices. We can read and research more available information than any one library could house in less time than ever before. As more information is downloaded, our beliefs are clouded and we can become lost in a sea of information, looking for the “right” knowledge to move forward. The reality is each of us possesses an insight that we can harness. That little voice inside that some call “intuition.” In the midst of doubt, trust yourself to know how to take the next step, know that if you can find your inner comfort and listen closely, your choices will enhance your journey in ways that will nourish and strengthen your beliefs. As a Christ follower, I believe this comes from God’s Spirit that is integrated within me.

Pray Daily — Talk to God

Prayer requires no planning, no funding, and no fear. I personally believe in a loving and living God, but you may not share my belief. Open your heart and speak your mind to the power you believe in, whether you call it God or not. There is no right or wrong way to do it. Just do it. Tell Him your joys and your sorrows, your plans and your worries. You are welcome from day one. There is no special club card required. Pray like your life depends on it.

Meditate Daily

Meditation is the quieting of the mind through a practice of relaxation and reading scripture or inspirational literature. It is a time of silence when you are able to quiet your thoughts, be at peace, and think of what is most important in life. This silent reflection will provide insight into your journey. The practice of meditation is not difficult, and anyone can learn how to do it. Take the time to relax, learn, and listen.

6. True character shows in adverse times. Be of strong character.

Face Your Fears

You are right where you are supposed to be. Let me repeat that. You are right where you are supposed to be. Being afraid or holding on to anger does not make your situation better. You do! Bad news and bad situations don’t get better by ignoring them. Have the courage to admit your fears and your mistakes and learn from them, let them go, and move forward.

Do What Is Right

Most everyone knows right from wrong and when put to the test most choose to do the right things. A person with strong character uses the “Front Page” test every day when making their choices, which means whatever choices they make, they are comfortable with their actions making the front page of the local newspaper or the top of every social media platform. Do what is right even when no one is watching.

Find Your Purpose

On the same part of the journey as developing a strong character is finding your purpose. It is important to realize that everyone is unique. YOU are unique. No one else on this planet is identical to you. No one will ever do what you do, so get on with the process of finding your purpose. Your uniqueness will change the world and influence others in an awesome way. A great way to start is to ask someone you trust and who cares about you, “What do you think is my best talent, what is my best trait, what do I do well?” Then ask yourself, “How can I serve others?”

7. Make a difference one day at a time.

Remember You Are a “WOW” Person

Everyone can make a difference by being “WOW” — a wise one that is willing. Making a difference is about using your talents to influence and inspire. You are wise. You possess personal knowledge and life experiences no matter your age. The challenges you have had on your journey so far give you the wisdom that can help others. One “you” is all it takes. One person can make a difference, helping one person with one problem and sharing one kind word. To the world, you may be just one person, but to one person, you could be the difference in their life. Now add willing. Make the commitment to be ready, eager, and prepared to do something. Your willingness coupled with your expertise will actually make a difference!

Take Time to Reflect

Before you close your eyes each day, take a moment to reflect. Whenever you are struggling during the day thinking that nothing you do is worth the effort, stop and reflect. Think about your day and find at least one thing that made a difference that day, influenced something new or made it better, or inspired someone to excel and make the world a better place. No matter who you are and no matter your challenge, you make a difference!

Rise to Your Potential

What would you do if you knew you would not fail? Through embracing a positive attitude you will soon understand that anything is possible. A great amplifier of positivity is practicing nonjudgment of others. Cease judgment for one hour a day by saying, “For the next hour I will turn all my judgments into potentials.” As you reduce your judgments of yourself and others, you will begin the rise to your true potential. Above all else, believe in yourself, embrace your challenges as adventures, and remember anything is possible!

Take advantage of every day you wake up under the sun. Every day is a new opportunity to make better choices. Never forget who you are and never stop going after your dream daily. Even if the fulfillment of your dream(s) may be pretty far away, never lose hope, and never stop taking advantage of today. Live each day to the fullest because, in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.

It’s the Life in Your Years that Counts – Part 1

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In our Wisdom Notes this week, we will explore how to live each day to the fullest because, in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.

Jesus desires us to live a life that is lived in abundance, a life lived fully. This is not in reference to material abundances but internal abundance through Him. He does not want us to be robbed of the joy that is found in Him. In John 10:10 Jesus proclaimed, “The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.”

We will explore some ways that will allow us to live that rich and satisfying life.

1. Your attitude is a choice. You are in control. Create a positive attitude.

You might say,”Yes, I hear you Guthrie, but how can you choose a positive attitude each moment of each day?” As with anything worthwhile, it will not be easy. It takes consistent persistence to create this habit. Here are three tips that may help.

Wake Up and Pause

Each day when you open your eyes you have a choice. Choosing the path of a positive mindset empowers you to move through the day with a sense of joy, even on the bleakest of days. Love yourself and be thankful. Find one thing that is positive about waking up. It could be the mere fact that you did. Each day choose to be positive about the day ahead. You are exchanging a day of your life for what you fill those 24 hours with, so make it positive. Read something to start the day that inspires you, like a daily devotional. Where your attention goes energy flows. Fill the beginning of your day with conscious choices that nourish your mind, body, and spirit in a positive way.

Smile

Pick something that makes you smile. It could be the sound of the birds singing or a babbling brook. It could be a smell that impacts your mind, whether it is real right in front of you or just a memory at the back of your mind. Close your eyes and think about a happy time full of pleasant scents – maybe a kitchen full of the sweet aromas of fresh coffee and sizzling bacon or a cool fall day or field of wild flowers. A smile might even happen through touch. Perhaps a soft blanket or a furry friend from the animal kingdom brings a smile of comfort and belonging. No matter what it is that makes you smile – an image, a situation, a place, or a person – smile when you think of it and then just keep smiling.

Practice Conscious Breathing and Gratitude Reminders

Create a list of everything in your life that you are thankful for. It does not have to be long, but change it and add to it when you think of new items. This should be done ahead of time and kept near your bed, so it is the first thing you look at each morning. After you wake up and pause, think of something to smile about and then take three deep breaths, inhale as deep as you can, hold it a moment, and exhale. Make your attitude choice for the day, choose to be positive, and as I mentioned in the last point, force a smile on your face even if you don’t feel like it. Then read or pray through your gratitude list each morning before doing any other activities. Commit to yourself to carry that positive mindset with you all day long. Any time during your day when you feel your positive mindset is waning, repeat this step.

2. Embrace the moment for you may never pass this way again.

Live Today Fully and Be in the Present

Being present in the moment is something I continually work at on a daily basis. With so many competing priorities, the moments that matter can get lost in the noise. Learn how to slow down and embrace the “now.” As I mentioned in the beginning of this note today, allow yourself time to honor the moments you are spending with family and friends. Practice being in the present by taking a walk or hike and be consciously aware of what you see, hear, smell, touch or taste. If walking is not an option, use your imagination, and walk a path to the top of a mountain in your mind.

Make a Memory

Proactively engage in making a memory. Time may not be on our side, so surprise someone with a call or send them a letter telling them how important they have been to you in your life or how proud you are of them. Be sure to take a picture in the midst of all the chaos, to capture those moments that document the love and the life that surround you. Be sure to tell stories to those who will carry on the family traditions. Story-telling is a strong tie between generations and will live in the memories of our loved ones forever.

Do Something You Have Put “On Hold”

We all have those things we will do “someday.” Make someday today! It doesn’t have to cost a fortune or be extravagant. It can be simple but rewarding. Read that book you have wanted to read or sign up for a class and learn a new skill or hobby. Make the choice to travel, if only outside to a local park. Taking the first step is the hardest thing to do. Be courageous to know that you can choose to do something for yourself, and do it now before the time is gone.

Paul reminds of this in his letter to the church in Ephesus Chapter 5 verse 16, “Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days.”

3. Leave your mark. You only have one chance at each day. Make it count.

Personal Growth

Leaving your mark starts with knowing yourself. The ability to leave your mark also requires you to know what your mark is all about. Personal growth can begin with taking time to outline your intentions and desires in this life. Ask yourself who you are, who are you really, what is your living legacy today, and what will it be when you die? Your thoughts become your actions and your actions are what leave your mark in this world. Spend time in personal growth and understand your life’s focus.

Find Your Voice

It’s okay to talk to yourself. Journaling is a great way to have a discussion with yourself about what is upsetting you and what matters to you. It is also a great way to find your voice, understand what you stand for and how you want to make an impact on the world. Another critical piece of finding your voice is telling others about your ideas and insights. Remain open to constructive feedback and practice non-judgmental behavior when others don’t see your point of view or disagree with you. Life is full of diversity — there is room enough for everyone’s voice. Don’t forget to circle back and reread your journal entries. We all come up with exceptional and very exciting ideas, but they can fade away if they are not cultivated. Returning to read your past journal entries can rekindle an idea whose time is now!

Give Back

Be someone’s sunshine! People need to seek sunshine and strength from others during their darkest times. One of the best ways to live your legacy each day is to give back to the world. A few ideas that might fit your journey are praying for others, being a mentor, or volunteering. Legacy building does not require financial resources. It requires time invested in others. If you have the capability to invest financially, mentor, volunteer, and pray, then that is your responsibility to do so. Each one of us can pray for others and support them every day. Being a mentor or volunteering takes more of a commitment, and if your life allows for you to make that type of commitment, building those relationships can be very rewarding.

4. Stop and take notice. Pay attention to others for we are all connected.

It’s All About Love

Many popular songs and screenplays have documented the fact that love is the center of all that is positive and good in the world. Stop and reflect on how you are interacting with those around you. Is it all about love? Are you an example of love’s three “A’s”: Attention, Affection and Appreciation? It seems so simple, yet one of the hardest things to do for so many people is to show their love. Paying attention to what matters to someone else, giving affection in a time of need and saying thank you for the little things are what matter. Practice “Love’s Three A’s” today!

Love comes from God, and as his children we are to reflect this love. The entirety of Scripture is summed up in one paragraph as written in Mark 12:30-31, “And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’ The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ No other commandment is greater than these.”

Hugs for All Occasions

I grew up in a family that gave and received hugs as a show of appreciation and affection. Even if you are a macho man or woman, don’t resist a heartfelt embrace of another person. If there is an apparent kinship, even with someone that I have just met, an appropriate hug is okay. Certainly with family members, I feel that it is essential. Research shows hugging therapy has a powerful positive effect on people’s minds, bodies and spirits. The Scripture is full of examples of hugging or, as it is referred to as, embracing.

There are welcoming hugs and departing hugs. There are hugs of affection and hugs of sorrow. We are even to embrace wisdom as is mentioned in the following verses.

Proverbs 3:18, “Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her; happy are those who hold her tightly.”

Proverbs 4:8, “If you prize wisdom, she will make you great. Embrace her, and she will honor you.”

Be sincere with your hugs, and don’t be afraid to do so. Life is short. Hold tightly to those things and people that are important.

Connect

Although we are all connected to God, meaningful connections don’t happen without our conscious effort. One way to connect to someone is called active listening. Think of having a discussion with someone and leaning forward, actually leaning into the person as they talk. Be sure to engage in eye contact as well. Listen to what the person is saying, how he is expressing his words, and what body language he is using. By actively listening, you can connect to the individual’s emotional side rather than only hearing the words.

It is also important to have balance in your life. All giving and no receiving can wear down a person’s positive energy. Give from the heart of your time and your talent and allow others to give to you as well. Part of the joy you feel when you give is the same joy others feel when you receive their help. Remember to send a “thank you” card. Not just because you receive a gift, just because you are thankful. It is not the size of the gesture, but rather the acknowledgment that someone is thinking of you and connects at the level of gratitude. It may seem old-fashioned, but kindness and gratefulness never go out of style.

Learn to Shut Up – Part 2

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In our previous Wisdom Note, we began to explore why it is important to learn that instead of speaking we need learn to keep our mouth closed whenever possible. Each time we speak, it is a conscious choice to do so.

We are focusing on 10 lessons that will at least help to minimize the potential negative impact that our tongues may have. Unless you are a ventriloquist it all boils down to the fact that we need to think before opening our mouths to speak. We will continue on to lesson #3 in this note, and for each of these lessons we need to know to say “keep your mouth shut when…”

Lesson #3 – You want to gossip.

When you want to say something negative about someone behind their back, don’t. Just don’t. There is almost never a good reason to do this. It makes you look petty, childish, and mean-spirited. It might get back to the person you’re slandering. Never gossip, and if someone does something truly terrible, that will significantly harm someone or an organization, you might need to discuss it. If you are in an appropriate position, discuss it with that person privately first. If it is unresolved then discuss it with an appropriate person to decide what course of action to take.

Lesson #4 – The details of a plan or deal are not complete.

Look to that old adage “Never count your chickens before they’re hatched,” or “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.” If you’re making plans for some big activity or making a deal of some kind, never announce it until the crucial details are worked out or the paperwork is complete. You’ll feel embarrassed or stupid if things fall through.

Lesson #5 – You’re mad or upset with a person or situation.

When someone annoys you, don’t respond right away, as you are likely to blow up and/or say something you will regret. And, you can’t take it back. A word spoken cannot be unspoken. Even if you apologize, people will not forget. You’re weak when you’re angry. Don’t act in a moment of weakness. Even if they’re wrong and you’re right, you won’t come out of it looking good.

Lesson #6 – You have had too much to drink.

While I do not drink alcohol myself, I know that most people do. It’s really hard to keep your mouth shut when you’re drunk. Even small amounts of alcohol lower inhibitions and make you far more likely to say something inappropriate. If you are drinking, be aware of how it affects you. If you are able to keep quiet after a few, do so. Or, cut yourself off before you get to the point of brutal honesty. It is hard enough to control our tongues when we are sober. Be very careful when drinking.

Lesson #7 – You’re about to ask a question that isn’t really a question.

If you are at a gathering or meeting and you feel that you just have to interject into the conversation, to tell some story from your past, or to ask a question that does not add to the conversation, be careful. So many times we try to shift the focus to ourselves, instead of allowing others to speak.

Lesson #8 – You’re about to complain.

If you are getting ready to speak, check yourself to see if you are about to complain about something. You might be thinking that it’s hot, you have too much to do, something smells, or that person is mean or stupid. All of these may be true, but keep it to yourself. Nobody likes a whiner. If you must speak, look for only positive things to speak about.

Lesson #9 – Someone else is being a jerk.

When someone else is being stupid, rude, belligerent, or an idiot in some other way, let them. Don’t call them out, get mad, insult, or embarrass them. First, they could just be having a bad day, or they do not know how to handle themselves in whatever situation they’re in. Be kind, and you’re likely to diffuse things far quicker than if you react in a like manner. If the person really is just a horrible jerk, they’ve got enough to deal with in life and will eventually pay the price without your help. “Everything is its own reward.”

Lesson #10 – You’re about to talk to fill the silence.

Silence can be awkward, but there are a couple of reasons you shouldn’t necessarily rush to fill it. The first is that some people just like to think before they speak and aren’t as freaked out by pauses as others. So, when you jump in to fill the void, you’re actually cutting off their thought process. Wait a while and make sure they’re not preparing to speak. Another reason is that if you’re both uncomfortable with silence, sometimes you can learn a lot by letting the other person fill it. We often tend to overshare when we want to impress and overcome any sort of awkwardness. We may think that it could be perceived as our fault for not holding up our end of the conversation. This tactic is particularly useful when conducting interviews, managing meetings, or even hosting sales calls. Many a sale has been lost because the salesperson did not know when to shut up. Some people actually like periods of solace and silence in a conversation. Allow for extended periods of silence and just bask in the benefit of being with another person.

When you’re talking, you’re not listening. And listening is the most important thing you can do. Always remember, you cannot learn when your mouth is open.

We have come to the end of our trail today, so I will leave you with four proverbs that deal with talking too much.

Proverbs 10:19, “Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.”

Proverbs 17:27, “A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even-tempered.”

Proverbs 17:28, “Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent; with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent.”

Proverbs 21:23, “Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble.”