Insights from ‘Think Faster, Talk Smarter’ by Matt Abrahams Flashcards
What is the first step in the 3S Anxiety Management Plan?
Separate yourself from your anxiety by imagining giving advice to a nervous friend.
How does slowing down your exhales help with anxiety?
Longer exhales reduce carbon dioxide in your body, calming your nervous system.
True or False: Using filler words can make you sound more confident.
False
To sound controlled and confident, what should you do instead of using filler words?
Embrace silence and time inhales between points.
What does ‘dare to be dull’ encourage speakers to do?
It encourages speakers to stop judging themselves and speak freely, allowing smoother and more authentic communication.
In improv, why is ‘daring to be dull’ valuable?
It relaxes performers, enabling them to focus on simple, logical contributions rather than trying to impress.
Fill in the blank: Salespeople often use the ________ structure to increase sales.
problem-benefit-solution
What structure do trial lawyers commonly use to persuade?
IRAC: Issue, Rule, Analysis, Conclusion.
What is the What-So What-Now What structure useful for?
It’s an easy, effective structure for impromptu speaking, helping speakers organize ideas by stating the topic, its relevance, and actions needed.
Application: After reading an article, how can you practice What-So What-Now What?
Summarize the article’s main idea, why it’s important, and how it can be applied.
Why is ‘daring to be dull’ paradoxically effective?
Giving yourself permission to be mediocre often leads to more genuine and compelling communication.
True or False: You need to make every statement original to contribute effectively.
False
What mindset can reduce pressure to ‘wow’ an audience with every statement?
Remember that adding logical connections or simple ideas is valuable, not just big ideas.
What analogy does Matt Abrahams use to describe pausing between points in speaking?
He likens it to a gymnast sticking a landing and pausing before resuming.
Why might over-trying to be liked by your audience increase anxiety?
It can make you more self-conscious and less focused on authentic communication.
