Less is more

I find myself using that line all the time.  I think I learned the concept a long time ago in reference to "making a deal".  The idea in that case was that you made your offer, usually below what you thought the product was worth, and then you waited in silence.  The silence effectively adds pressure to the other person and makes them think that is your final offer.
Well, I don't think I have ever used it in this way, but I have found it applies to so many things.  In business, I use it all the time.  Software is probably the example I use the most.  We get peoples systems in with tons of crappy software installed, and the computer just growls along almost to a halt.  Throw out most of the useless crap and the system runs as it should.
Another way this line could be used is with verbal communication.  Some of you may be familiar with the book by Dale Carnegie, "How To Win Friends And Influence People".  I think it is one of the most useful books I have ever read, and I encourage everyone to check it out, especially if you were born with the last name Rooyakkers!  One of the main ideas is that in any conversation, especially one on one, you should listen more than you speak.  Encourage the other party to talk about themselves or demonstrate their knowledge to you.  Avoid "one upping" the other person.....Oh, you broke your leg, how terrible, but I broke my leg, my arm and my nose, not to mention all at the same time while I was performing some incredible feat!!  When I first read this idea, I actually found it quite difficult to follow.  After a bit of practice though, I started paying attention and realized that I always had to hog the conversation and have the better story or bigger problem etc.  Once I started really noticing this, it was much easier to get in the groove and start prompting the other party to speak while I just listened.  I found much to my delight, that not only does this make the other party feel more appreciated and heard, after a while, I discovered that it is actually more enjoyable for me as well!  It is an ultimate win, win situation.  Its funny, since I have made this change, I also notice much more the people who haven't figured this concept out.  I doesn't bother me when I come across someone like this, I just notice it and I never try to compete.
I still catch myself once in a while making this mistake myself, but there is no doubt making the change has improved my relationships and helps people want to be around me.

"The more I see the less I know for sure"

John Lennon

Love Holij