Speaking simply, Thinking Clearly

Simple ideas are the basis of clear thinking. The clarity of your thinking will be expressed in the way you speak. Are the thoughts you express simple or complex? Study your verbal self-expression. Using a tape recorder will be helpful. Also study the way others speak, see if your thoughts and their thoughts are simple.

Let us take an example: Joe says to Frank, “You wouldn’t like to go to the movies, would you?” This is an example of complicated thinking. Another example: Joe says to Frank, “Have you thought of that terrific picture they’re showing at the Mann Theater in Westwood? Tonight’s the last chance to see it; it would be a shame to miss it. Henry saw it and raved about it. I think you’ll regret it if you don’t see it. How about going?”

Simple thinking is straightforward; it’s not manipulative. Example: Joe say to Frank, “Tonight is the last night the latest Harry Potter movie is playing at the Mann Theater in Westwood; I plan to see it, I would enjoy your company if you would like to see it: it had excellent reviews. Henry said he enjoyed the movie very much.” Joe speaks for himself as an individual and allows Frank to make his own decision. This is mature and simply communicated.

Listen to yourself. Are your thoughts expressed simply and directly? If they are clear, they can be expressed simply. If they are complex, your speech will be complex. Working at speaking simply is a wonderful discipline for helping yourself to think clearly.