For some reason, this timing-breathing-thinking communication device is habitually lost in the noise of everyday life – in today’s world where every second of every minute seems to be crammed with sound. <PAUSE> I am as guilty as the next when it comes to “streaming” words. Sometimes it’s enthusiasm…sometimes time crunch….The reasons why may vary but the result is usually the same: Losing the Audience. <PAUSE>
The pregnant pause can be effective in almost any situation – whether it’s a speech, dialogue, or presentation or even if you’re chatting with friends and family. For me, it provides the opportunity to think before I speak. And it gives folks the opportunity to process. <PAUSE> And vice versa. <PAUSE>
Nettie Hartsock makes a great point here where she talks about the value of the pause as a tool for interviewing:
“The integral thing I learned was how very important it is to take a ‘pregnant pause’ during interviews. Letting there be a silent moment, the kind that’s awkward or seems to go on forever, but lets your interviewee think for a moment, and more importantly reminds you to be quiet for a moment.“
And right now I can’t help but think of Alanis Morrisette‘s gargantuan, attention-grabbing, literal pause in her song: All I Really Want.
“Why are you so petrified of silence
Here can you handle this?
<BIG PAUSE, BIG SILENCE>
Did you think about your bills, your ex, your deadlines
Or when you think you’re gonna die“
Regardless of how you’re going to use it, the pregnant pause is always a great excuse to take that all-important brain stimulating, pulse slowing, and thought-provoking deep breath. <PAUSE>
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