The Value of Fewer Words
Photo by Lina Trochez on Unsplash.
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PROJECT OF THE WEEK
(Talking Less, Asking Better, and Letting Space Do the Work)
I’ve been taking a coaching class, and one of the biggest lessons I keep bumping into is this:
I talk too much.
Now, don’t get me wrong, I love words. I use them to connect, to explain, to help people feel understood. When someone is struggling, my instinct is to comfort them with language, to fill the silence with reassurance or ideas.
But lately, I’ve been learning that sometimes the most powerful thing we can offer is less. Fewer words. Fewer explanations. Fewer fixes.
Just space.
The Coaching Lesson That Hit Home
As part of the coaching classes, we practiced asking concise, open-ended questions, the kind that invite people to think, not just respond.
It’s harder than it sounds.
When I’m with a client (or honestly, my child), and I see them struggling, my brain races to help: “What if you tried this?” “Maybe you could…” “Here’s what’s worked for other people…”
But when I slow down, breathe, and ask something simple like,
“What feels hard about that?” or “What do you think might help you take the next small step?”
— something shifts.
People start finding their own answers. They pause, look inward, and connect the dots for themselves. And that, I’m realizing, is the real magic.
The Parenting Parallel
Of course, this doesn’t just apply to coaching.
The same principle shows up in parenting all the time, especially when emotions are running high.
When my child is upset or overwhelmed, it’s so tempting to jump in with explanations, solutions, or pep talks. But that often sends the message that their feelings need to be “fixed.”
What I’m learning (slowly!) is that sometimes they don’t need my words at all. They need my presence. My calm. My willingness to sit in the moment with them without filling it.
As Robyn Gobbel writes, when we’re trying to help someone regulate — whether it’s a child or an adult — our calm presence matters more than our clever words.
Getting Started
Practicing the Pause
So here’s what I’m practicing lately — in coaching, parenting, and life:
Ask shorter questions. The simpler, the better.
Leave space. Let silence be an invitation, not something to fill.
Trust the other person’s wisdom. They often already know. They just need room to find it.
Breathe before you speak. Sometimes, the pause is the most powerful part.
I’ll probably always be someone who loves to talk things through. It’s part of who I am. But I’m learning that I don’t have to use every word I have to show that I care.
Sometimes, the quietest moments are where the most growth happens, for both of us.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.