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title: Be impeccable with your word
created: 2024-11-18T09:16:50
modified: 2025-12-07T20:35:19
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> _“Words are but pictures of our thoughts.” — John Dryden_

> _“Understanding is the heartwood of well-spoken words.” — The Buddha_

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“Raise your words, not voice. It is rain that grows flowers, not thunder.”

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One useful word is better than a thousand useless words.

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Always be aware of how you are using the word. Avoid using the word to [speak against yourself](be-careful-how-you-are-talking-to-yourself.md) or to [Never gossip about others](Never%20gossip%20about%20others.md) about others.

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Some questions to consider before you speak:

 * _Does this need to be said?_
 * _Does this need to be said by me?_
 * _Does this need to be said by me right now?_

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Before you speak, let your words pass through three gates:

1. _Is it true?_
2. _Is it necessary?_
3. _Is it kind?_

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[Speak less, listen more](Speak%20less,%20listen%20more.md)