30 second rule

I was reading today and came across what is called the "30 second rule." I am going to try to practice it in the next few days.

What is the 30 second rule?

"Within the first 30 seconds of a conversation, say something encouraging to a person."

What is our first instinct when we meet someone either formally or causally? To make ourselves look good. The key to the 30 second rule is reversing this practice. When we meet people, instead of focusing on ourselves, why not look for ways to make others look good?

Here's how:

Thank them for something they have done for you or for someone else.
Tell others about one of their accomplishments.
Praise them for a personal quality they show.
Compliment their appearance.

To practice this takes time, effort tan discipline but he reward is huge.

William King has written, "A gossip is one who talks to you about other people. A bore is one who talks to you about himself. And a brilliant conversationalist is one who talks to you about yourself."

The 30 second rule makes people feel better about themselves. Everyone of us can go for days on one solid compliment.

The 30 second rule gives people energy. When someone praises you, doesn't your energy level go up? And when you are criticized, doesn't that comment drag you down? Words can bring life or words can bring death.

The 30 second rule instills motivation. Everybody need motivation from time to time.

Here's a principle I am learning: those who add to us, draw us to them. Those who subtract, cause us to withdraw. I want to be a person that draws people closer to me, how about you?