As communication in the world accelerates exponentially, one would think that voices and words would gain in power and effectively ‘silence’ all other forms of communication. Yeah, one would think. Throughout time, however, the ability of effectively leveraged silence continues speaking volumes and commands attention, power and influence by its mere presence. As an understatement, counter-intuitive at best.

When two people share an intimate or life-changing moment, silence communicates like a laser, effectively conveying precise thoughts without words. When an individual addresses a group of people, silence can make a point, direct attention, complete a sentence or thought and powerfully plant an idea, change perspective, reinforce a position or gain momentum.

You see, there is so much more to communicating than spoken or written words, pleas for help or cursing in anger, frustration or fear. In the context of effectiveness, silence drowns out all other forms of communication, when properly included, timed and delivered.

People have also significantly impacted the world with silence. As a young deaf and blind child, Helen Keller learned to sign letters in her hand from her mentor Anne Sullivan. Keller would go on to become an internationally respected public figure and author. Laurent Clerc, a French-American, was co-founder of the first school for the deaf in America and the first deaf teacher of the deaf in America. Marlee Matlin, was the first deaf woman to win an Academy Award (Best Actress) for her role in Children of a Lesser God.

The power of silence can effectively quiet a crowd, halt an argument, heal a hurt and infuse optimism and motivation. Inherently peaceful and effectively used, silence speaks LOUDLY in a world of sound, words and communication. As the world-renowned organizational expert, Peter F Drucker, commonly known as the ‘Father of Management’ once quoted, “The most important thing in communication is to hear what isn’t being said.”

Silence is indeed, golden.

Related articles