It is better to keep your mouth closed and let people think you are a fool than, to open it and remove all doubt.
-Mark Twain
You can have something extremely smart, useful or funny to say, but if you say it at an improper time, you could make yourself look foolish.
Throughout history many famous, noteworthy people have taken Mark Twain's words to heart. These wise people knew when to talk and when to keep silent. Many leaders have to learn when to talk and when to keep silent even when it might be difficult to do so. All leaders must choose their words carefully, picking the right time to speak, so that their words can have the greatest impact.
If you learn to develop this skill of knowing when to hold your tongue, you will also become wise, even if people think you are not. Some people, in fact, will underestimate you because they do not know what you are thinking all the time. This can give you an advantage in many situations. When people underestimate you, they do not focus on you, leaving you to make and perform plans without being noticed.
If you think before you speak, you can also improve your listening skills, which is a very important and useful skill to have. Listening is another key trait(特征)for a leader to have, and it is harder to achieve than many people think. First, you have to be quiet, and then you have to listen attentively, with all your attention on what the person is saying to be a good listener. When you learn to stop and think before you speak and when you learn to become a good listener you will be well on your way to becoming a good leader. By being able to listen to the people that work with you and for you, you will be able to make informed decisions.
12. The quotation(引言)from Mark Twain functions as________.
A.an example | B.a thread | C.a comparison | D.a model |
13. The author takes the example of many famous, noteworthy people to express that____
A.influential people are able to express themselves freely |
B.many important people didn't take Mark Twain's words seriously |
C.leaders should attach great importance to when, how and what to say |
D.the public will not understand them if famous, noteworthy people keep silent |
14. According to the passage, what are the advantages of developing the skills of holding your tongue?
① You could be underestimated by others.
② People often think highly of you.
③ You can polish up listening skills.
④You will improve your relationship with others.
15. Which of the following is the best title?
A.He That Talks Much Errs Much | B.Facts Speaks Louder than Words |
C.Even Homer Sometimes Nods | D.A Still Tongue Makes a Wise Head |