From Small Talk to Meaningful Connection: How To Ask Good Questions, Listen Actively and Enjoy The Silence with Terre Short

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In this episode, my guest Terry Short author of the book "the words we chose: Your Guide to How and Why Words Matter." discusses her lifelong draw to words and how their impact on her personal and professional life led her to write a book about effective communication. She shares her experiences with how different people, including her parents, children, and workplace leaders, use words and the significant changes they can invoke. The conversation covers the generational and cultural shifts in word usage, the importance of choosing the right words, and strategies for people in leadership and healthcare to communicate more effectively. Terry provides practical examples of words that convey uncertainty and offers better alternatives. The discussion extends to the benefits of small talk, the importance of active listening, and the challenges of maintaining meaningful conversations. Finally, Terry emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and presence in communication and shares tips for empathetic responses, especially in sensitive situations like grief.
00:00 Introduction: The Power of Words

00:19 Parental Influence and Early Experiences

01:07 Workforce Observations and Leadership

01:29 Writing the Book: Inspiration and Themes

02:20 Generational Differences in Communication

02:52 Leadership Communication Challenges

03:32 Healthcare Communication Issues

06:47 Internal Narratives and Self-Confidence

12:21 The Importance of Small Talk

16:06 Mastering Small Talk: Tips and Techniques

21:50 The Role of Silence in Communication

25:31 Mindfulness and Self-Reflection

28:23 The Art of Asking Questions

29:20 The Power of Curiosity

29:58 Avoiding 'Why' Questions

30:33 Engaging Questions for Deeper Connections

35:14 Handling Difficult Conversations

38:40 Active Listening Techniques

48:18 The Importance of Word Choice

51:39 Writing the Book: A Personal Journey
Memorable Quotes:

- "Silence isn't empty, it's full of answers." – Terre Short

- "Ask more, tell less. Be interested instead of interesting." – Terre Short

- "We get to do the laundry, we don't have to do the laundry." – Terre Short

To Purchase Terre Short's book, go to:

- https://www.thrivingleadercollaborative.com/product/the-words-we-choose

Connect with Terre Short:

- https://www.thrivingleadercollaborative.com

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