How Retirees Use SILENCE as a Powerful Tool

This video discusses how retirees use "Silence" as a secret weapon in their everyday lives. It discusses using the gravitas of silence to deal with bad people and the kindness of silence to help those that you care about most.

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Disclaimer: this video is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for legal, accounting, tax, or professional advice. If you have any specific questions about any legal, accounting, tax or other professional service matter you should consult the appropriate professional services provider.

[timm]

My grandpa would carefully listen to me when I was young. He would then share some of his life experiences dealing with the Great Depression. These priceless stories totally impacted my life for the better.

[EarthSurfer]

Silence is an incredibly valuable negotiating technique. I recently purchased a used car. The young salesman was unaware that my pauses to read documents, calculate and verify costs, were all part of the theater on my part. After a few moments, he would grow impatient and throw out another option to “sweeten” the deal. When I finally reached my target price, that extra 5 minutes of “checking the paperwork” added 4 oil changes and tire rotations to the deal.

[clwest]

My son found himself a single parent to two kids. I have the privilege of taking and picking them up from school - rule #1: no electronics around grandma - except for special occasions. When they asked why, I simply stated I enjoyed actually talking with them. I started this in K-garden & 1st grade so now in 5th & 6th grade it is second nature. They even regulate each other.

We talk about their day, their friends, big events and anything 'bothering' them. We cook together once or twice a week (I cook dinner for my dad, their Papaw).... no, my son doesn't want money from me, and yes, I've 'babysat' many times ... but it is because I love my son and his kids and we enjoy being together ... not out of obligation. Being silent and looking them in the eyes when they talk has helped them through the troubles of life and we share their successes .... Silence can be powerful with younger children when it involves direct communication with them. Great video!

[mikemurel]

Being in sales my whole life, listening to my customers was my best sales tool. Customers don't want to hear you talk. They want to talk . Not necessarily to get responses. Many of them said the same basic things over 10, 20 or even 30 years. I always acted interested, never interrupted. There was only a very tiny percentage that I disliked, and I treated them the same. Treat people like you want to be treated. You will be sought after for advice and friendship.

[backofthefleet]

I've been retired now for 5 years, but still part-time programming professionally as I still find it mentally stimulating. I found active listening a great tool when mentoring and coaching younger colleagues. Never providing the solution to whatever the issue was, but getting them to vocalise it - perhaps with the odd "prodding" question from me - they would most times find the solution on their own. All they had to do was hear the problem described.

[Arven]

Silence helped me a great deal a couple days ago. In a nutshell, a strange man acted like an as*h*le towards me, and I held my tongue and walked away. I could have said something insulting (since then, I've thought of many zingers, lol), but I didn't. Kept my mouth shut and walked away. Why? Because some people are sociopathic - they are more common than you think, and the best way to deal with them is to avoid them. If you engage them, you are putting yourself at risk, because they *like* violence, they do not care about anyone but themselves, and they have nothing to lose. I have plenty to lose, I like people, and I'm not interested in putting myself at risk (physically, financially, legally, etc.). I think it's mostly an ego thing that makes me want to say something back, but holding my tongue is the wiser course of action.

[seanherbeck]

Be quick to listen, slow to speak - James 1:19

[discoverglobeliving]

I've noticed that silence often speaks louder than words, especially when dealing with tricky situations.

[deanmay]

Geoff, I am a retired university professor that taught human behavior and development for over 30 years. So impressed with your video, comments, and analysis. Well said.

[leslieh]

I'm loving that Geoff has shared other words of wisdom (aside from retirement and related topics). There's more to a successful, meaningful life than money.

[Adogslife]

Reminds me of the old expression - we should listen twice as much as we talk. That is why God gave us two ears and one mouth.

[andyiswonderful]

I learned the power of silence many years ago. It is especially useful during encounters with strangers asking you for money on the street. As you mentioned, they usually start by asking, "Can I please ask you a question?". My response is always a hard stare as I walk past them. I find that this often confuses the scammer.

[TowneSquareSinger]

I love this. You have reminded me of the quiet strength my elders communicated to me. Thank you for sharing this.

[terryB]

As a Nurse I've used quiet time to be able to assess situation. I use it in my Family be a Good Listener before giving input.

[wyominghome]

I've used silence in salary negotiations to good effect. After making my case for how I was doing an excellent job and getting great results I would ask for a raise double what I actually needed. When the excuse came (we can't afford it at this time, etc.) I would just look my boss in the eye and say quietly "Well, I'm disappointed." No argument, no outrage. I'd just leave. And voila! I'd get half of what I'd asked for, which was just what I wanted. :)

[deborahboos]

Unexpected topic for this channel but so very welcome. Thank you.

[azcoueshntr]

To all strangers, phone calls, door to door, walk ups, my response is always-“I’m sorry but I do not answer questions.”

[MResearch]

When the kiosk hucksters at all three warehouse clubs bide for our attention, we casually walk past, saying nothing, not even reacting. They are not worth our time, energy or attention.

Learned a long time ago, in general, it is very often wise in everyday interactions, to remain silent rather than open your mouth and prove yourself either ignorant or an arse. We learn a lot more by listening rather than by talking.

[catharinephoto]

Your words about silence were amazing. You are deeper than we knew.

[ninadecker]

I agree with about 90% of what you say about silence as a tool. But you and I do not agree on hiding ones values, beliefs, and political views that have now become unfortunately part of a frightening future in this country I also believe in teaching your grandchildren, courage of convictionthrough verbal expression, and how one lives one’s life