This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Valdosta chapter.
Silence has a certain energy to it like that has the power to get people to think and to act, it can help slow the mind down, and it is a powerful ally in the likes of communication. Silence not only allows time introspection but allows our true self to speak connect to the flow of energy around us. Here are some of the benefits of choosing silence:
Silence can help you think before you speak
Your words will have more of an impact when you choose to remain silent because instead of talking just to be heard, you allow yourself to figure out all of your thoughts inside of your head and heart before giving a voice to it.
Silence can create a listening space.
Often times we only listen long enough to come up with a response. When you are profoundly listening to someone, you create an open space for them to talk that’s almost palpable. Good listeners know how to do this, and it can be learned. It’s an openness that you transmit through nonverbal means. And what a gift! It says, “Open up. I’m here. I’m listening. I want to hear what you have to say, and to understand.”
Silence can stop you from incriminating yourself
There is a reason the law says “You have the right to remain silent.” The quickest way to tell on yourself is by talking. By remaining silent certain situations , you eliminate the chance of someone twisting your words or saying you said something you never said.
Silence speaks louder than words
Your ego and pride may not like this one but one of the best ways to show your self control and show your seriousness is to use the power of silence (especially during an argument)! When someone is shouting at you, looking for an argument or just picking on you, you can literally take all of the power away from them and keep all of your energy by simply looking at them and saying absolutely nothing. This is extremely difficult to do but very powerful.
Silence gives you peace of mind
Silence can be disturbing and uncomfortable to people when they are alone, this why we often have a natural need to fill the silence with noises like tv, music, or distractions from our phones. Don’t look at silence when you’re alone as being lonely. Instead use that alone time to recharge your mind and relax.
Silence helps us reflect and expand our thoughts
Silence helps us to work through, in our minds, the events of the day or project what we want to happen during the day ahead. The state of silence is a way of reaching another part of your mind not possible when clouded with noise. Clearing out the distractions gives your mind another way to connect to the world around you and open up your mind to new knowledge.
I recently embarked on a new journey of silence and have learned the deep wisdom of silence these days. I am constantly surprised by the intensity of just a few minutes of silent prayer and the impact it can have upon my personality and my life.