Listening Accomplishes More Than Speaking

June 15th, 2021

To the youngster talking nonsense Zeno said, ‘The reason why we have two ears and only one mouth is so we might listen more and talk less.

- Epictetus in Enchiridion, 4.3

One of the greatest regrets of my youth was that I often dominated all discussions.

The habit made me unbearable to those around me, of this I am sure. More importantly, I now understand just how much I could have learned from those around me.

Conclusion

Before you speak, ask yourself if you are contributing to the conversation or adding to the problem. Listening to others. Hear their wisdom. Learn to say less than necessary.