How to be a Bad Communicator (and Stay Result-less)
Scenario One
Elderly lady “A” boarded the MRT (Mass Rapid Transport much like a “tube” or “subway train”). Another elderly lady “B” (much younger than Lady “A”) offered her seat to “A”.
A said,”I am dropping off in another few stops”.
Ten minutes later, when B alighted, “A” sat in her place, disgruntled that no one else offered her their seat. “A” went home complaining NO ONE offered her a seat.
FAIL!
The reality of it all is this – NO ONE – not the young nor the old, will ever give up his or her seat to you – if they hear you say that you’re alighting in a few stations. Because they think that you DON’t WANT a seat.
There are also a fraction of people who think they need the seat more than you because they have a longer journey – a selfish thought no doubt!
Another reality (this is a fact although “an attitude and thought” that Asians need to change) – a fraction of Singaporean adults and youngsters feel deeply embarrassed when an elderly person refuses an offered seat. So instead of risking social humiliation, they don’t offer their seats and pretend to sleep!
Scenario Two
Father made a complaint to his own son. “You know ar… Your son intentionally placed this rolled up carpet on the floor here. I stepped on it this morning not knowing it’s behind this coffee table. I almost fell and lose my false denture.”
Son,”False teeth? But dad, I know you don’t wear false teeth in the morning! hahaaaaaaa!”
Father joined in the laughter,’hhaaahaaaaaa!”
…. ?? Purpose of complaint?
FAIL!
Scenario Three
Some people are very fond of bullying colleagues and family members around them by saying,”How many times must I tell you to XXXXX.” or “Why can’t you be more like xxxx?”
FAIL!
Lessons Learned
If you want better results FASTER, follow these simple “rules” of communication:
- Do not self-sabotage; do not say things that YOU DON’T REALLY MEAN. People are not mind-readers all the time even if you wish them to be! Or else pamper yourself – take a cab or go for a spa therapy (quick stress-reliever)!
- Count to 10 before you speak!
- Do not self-sabotage; do not join in the laughter if you want your complaint to be taken seriously.
- Ask for favours NICELY; you can get more out of being polite than from finding someone to blame (even if the blame is true). Use “please” and “thank you”!
Yep, don’t self-sabotage! THANK YOU for reading!! 
