TELL TIME ON THEIR CLOCK

Coarse granite rocks - “In the confrontation between the stream and the rock, the stream always wins. Not through strength, but through persistence.”

"Find out what makes them tick, then tell time on their clock." This was one man's solution for getting along well with people. Find out what makes them tick - learn to understand them. Then tell time on their clock - identify with them and speak their language.

There is an old story which Mark Twain was said to have told first. It is about a Missouri farmer who ran five times for the state legislature without winning. It wasn't because he didn't practice his speeches. He rehearsed his campaign talks every day while milking. He referred to himself as "your humble aspirant." He referred to his audiences as "my enlightened constituents." He talked of "obtaining a mandate" for his "legislative mission."

Then one day even his cow balked at his speeches and kicked him in the teeth. With his front teeth knocked out, the farmer could speak only words of one syllable. The result was he won his next election and kept getting reelected.

However Twain felt about the electorate of his day, the story still sheds light on the importance of "telling time on their clock." A highly educated and eloquent politician may not relate to his/her constituency. Many hard working, plain folk appreciate straight talk in plain language. They distrust those who seem to "put on airs" and feel as if that candidate might just try to "put one over."

However, they can relate to one who speaks their language. This is a person who knows what makes them tick. This is someone who identifies with their plight and lets them know it.

The principle works well for non-politicians, too. If it is important to relate well to others, first learn what makes them tick. How well do you know that teenager in your life (or parent) or that client or even that supervisor? In this global community, how well do you know those of different backgrounds?

Then tell time on their clock. Let them know you understand. Speak their language. You may be amazed at the way others will respond!

From Lifesupport.