A musician plays notes, but listen carefully. You realize that music comes not just from the notes, but from the silences. Silence works. Sometimes, it sings.
A friend comes to you seeking consolation. You help her not with your words, but without them; you just listen. Your silence works.
Your group convenes to plan. Someone voices a good idea. You nod in her direction and others notice. Your silence works.
A client comes to you seeking help. You can do that best by going so silent that all you hear are his needs, worries, and wishes. His answer comes from your silence.
We live in the age of noise that drowns out the signals. We have to escape to thrive. So go quiet and then totally still, and you will realize the power of silence. Silence makes notes sing, lets you help another person to see her way and feel her worth, and lets you hear–without interruption and clearly–the answers.
—
Follow me on Twitter and Psychology Today.

