Talk Less, Be Happier, And Know Who Kim Jong Il Is

This is me, being wordy on the blog. Or else online shopping.

 

As someone who loves words – the more, the merrier – this pains me to admit: there’s something to be said for brevity.

The fewer the words, the better. Over the past month I’ve read this advice from two, separate experts. This is either the universe telling me to button it up or there could be some wisdom here. (Or possibly both.)

One article was about what you should say to your kid after she plays in a soccer game or performs in a musical or any kid event.

The words are the same.

“I love to watch you play.”

That’s it. No play by play analysis of her moves. No subtle encouragement or not-so-subtle critiquing. Just 6 simple words.

I tried it. And, just like the writer said, my kid liked it.

Huh. How about that?

Then I read an article in “O” Magazine about simple steps to a happier life or something. The secret to domestic bliss lies in 4 simple words that should be uttered the next time you’re arguing with your beloved or your roommate or your offspring.

“You may be right.”

I may have to get this tattooed on my wrist for easy access the next time I’m angered by my fella.

Because who wants to win the battle on the home front but lose the war? I’d rather be happy more of the time than right all of the time. So I’m gonna try this one too.

And the last brief-is-better entry for today is the Skimm.com. This website is my new favorite because every morning it e-mails you a summary of the biggest news events of the day.

So much less wordy than a newspaper! Editors at the Skimm share the highlights of each story in the chatty, accessible voice of your favorite girlfriend. None of the summaries are longer than 3 paragraphs so it takes only 5 minutes to read and send your world knowledge -- even of sports! --  skyrocketing.

It’s free to subscribe, which I did just yesterday, so expect a lot more geopolitical references on the blog here. Because, thanks to the Skimm, Guru Girl’s gettin’ schooled. (Click this link to go to The Skimm to check it out.)