Always Say Less Than Necessary (The Power Of Nunchi) | Yoga 15

I talk too much. I get over-excited, especially in new interactions. I’m curious and enthusiastic and not brave enough to leave empty spaces. I feel a compulsion to fill the silence. And the problem with talking too much is that you can’t talk and listen at the same time. So I imagine I’m missing out on a whole lot.

I recently listened to a fantastic interview on The James Altucher Show with Euny Hong on the art of nunchi. Nunchi is a Korean concept, similar to emotional intelligence. Hong says for quick nunchi, “all you need are your eyes, your ears and a quiet mind.”

ADVICE ON ENTERING A NEW SPACE

“Understand when you enter a new environment, your task is to learn and absorb as much as possible.” Robert Greene

One aspect of nunchi is sensitivity to your environment. Here are a few of Euny’s recommendations for entering a new space. She says it’s like walking into an exam room where you’re being shown the answers to the test. If you just pay attention.

1. Empty your mind of preconceptions. Even if the space is familiar to you, each time you enter a room, the dynamic is different.
2. Take a breath. Don’t feel as though you need to say something or make a joke. If you wait long enough, most of your…