"One of the little things that I remind myself of all the time is stop talking. I think I've spent a lot of my life feeling like I have got to participate in every conversation. I've got to have an opinion on everything. I've got to make sure I get in the last word, whether it's at work or family in particular. And when you stop talking, a whole different world opens up to you," encourages global podcasting guru Mel Robbins.

The power of speaking less

If you're used to asking questions and having an opinion, it can certainly be a challenge to stay quiet and not say anything. But if you can, you may notice how different everything is.

Of course, feel free to ask questions if you want, but just stop talking, suggests Mel who explains that there are two ways that stopping talking has made a big difference in her own life.

Listening helps learning

Staying more quiet has helped Mel to grow. "When you're the one talking, you're not learning anything," suggests Mel. "When input is coming in, that's when you learn and grow." 

It's of course OK not to be the one dominating or leading or guiding.

Listening and not talking is going to make us happier, suggests Mel.

Lower your voice to signal control

And a great piece of career and life advice from Mel: "If you're in a conversation with somebody and it's argumentative or it's tense, just stop talking... not the silent treatment, but just stop talking. Lower your voice. When you do, it signals that you're in control. So stop talking and you're going to build your awareness, increase your confidence, and a whole different world is going to open up to you." 

Sometimes silence can be way more powerful, so stop talking.

Watch Mel's full podcast video here. It's awesome!

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