I agree with the author that
hearing our own filler words is difficult though I found it was not impossible.
When I noticed my communication being diluted by these words the most effective
way to stop it was to stop speaking, take a moment, collect my thoughts and
begin again. I was mindful.
Jan Chozen Bays points out that the use of filler words has
only become common in the past fifty years. I personally enjoy period pieces in
part due to their formal and elegant speech. The evolution of the English
language includes but is not limited to slang, cultural diversity, lack of
education and filler words. I can’t imagine how hard it would be to learn this,
no longer formally documented, form of speech. I find it ironic that compared
to other countries the native English speaker tends not to learn any other
language and in hindsight maybe not even their own.
I strive to communicate in a clear concise manner and
deliver a message with meaning and impact. I struggle to manage the sensitivity,
baggage and agendas of others. Since I can control my communication and not the
latter I elect to focus my attention where it will have the most benefit, on
the words that I am presenting to the universe.
In closing the author offers some profound insight. Only
when we bring the light of awareness to a pattern of behavior do we begin to
have some space to work to modify it. If we want to change ourselves, if we
want to realize our potential, it takes kindness, determination, and steady sustained
practice.
I look forward to the next exercise, which I will post
tomorrow.
Namaste
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