That’s Interesting. Tell Me More. {Mantra 4}
—Grace & Truth Linkup
Have you by chance had an awkward conversation with someone the past few years?
Unless you’ve had no conversations at all, the answer is likely yes.
Sometimes these conversations are unpredictable. They may leave us wanting to run away or to say things we’ll regret later.
There is an alternative. In awkward conversations and in regular conversations, too, try saying this:
“That’s interesting. Tell me more.”
Whenever you get stuck in a conversation—regardless of the reason—asking to hear more is kind, beneficial, and loving.
It’s still no guarantee that the conversation will improve.
But it increases the odds that your friend will at least feel like you’re listening (if you really are). And you may hear helpful information that will bring you closer.
This also works with our prayers. Practice saying it to God (That’s interesting, God. Tell me more). Lean in to what God may be trying to tell you.
Then imagine God saying it to you: That’s interesting. Tell me more.
What would your reply be about your current situation?
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Read all about it at her blog, then link up your own blog posts below.
“LOCK IN THE LESSON; REMOVE THE REGRETS”
Have you tried saying, “Tell me more“? How did it go? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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“See everything. Forgive much. Judge little.” {Mantra 3}
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“Bad things happen to everyone. So do good things.” {Mantra 5}
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- Bad Things Happen to Everyone. So Do Good Things {Mantra 5}
As a life coach, “Tell me more,” is a cornerstone question! I have never asked that when praying and reading God’s word but so perfect!
Tell me more . . .
I especially like how you’ve tied this in to our conversations with God, Lisa. Yes, that mantra will work when we want to engage another person more fully.
Blessings!
This is great advice, Lisa! Hearing it applied to God is heart opening.
“Tell me more.” I like that as it tied in with my thoughts this morning on being a peacemaker. Perhaps in saying “Tell me more” instead of “Let me tell you more” we can forge a path to peace and unity. We don’t need to agree but at least hear each other and not part having wounded one another.
I’m adding this mantra to my communication toolbox. I anticipate more in-depth conversations with God and those in my sphere of influence. I think the speaker will be assured that I am genuinely engaged. I know God wants me engaged in our conversations and imagining him asking me to tell Him more will draw me even closer. Thanks for this valuable tip Lisa.
Lisa, I’m loving your Mantra series! I love the idea of asking, “Tell Me More.” I don’t have to say I agree, but I can learn more about why they feel the way they do.
Thank you so much for featuring my post, Lock in the Lesson; Remove the Regrets! I’m so happy people are getting something out of it because it was mainly advice to myself!
Lisa, I love that picture of God and I listening to each other. I picture Enoch’s walk with God being like that.
I an really appreciating your mantras. Noticed, too, that you have released your usual red color scheme for this occasion.
I love how you applied this to God. I have applied it to people, but not God.
I love this idea as applied to prayer. It will be a great addition to my time of Love, Linger, and Listen this month.
I recently read an article about the art of conversation and how rare it is for people to ASK questions. This mantra is an excellent way to do that too – keep from me doing all the talking and for me to find out more about the person I’m talking with.
Love this. It shows one is a good and empathetic listener. And if the conversation is heated or if one really needs to contemplate, it provides much needed margin to do so.
Tx for sharing your wisdom, Lisa!
xo
Lynn
I’m very familiar with this phrase Lisa although I often formulate it slightly different.
Especially in my professional role as a Clinical Counselor.
And often placed a cuppa into the hand of the other & you’d be surprised how that opens up the conversation & sharing! ?
Bless you,
Jennifer
I’m guessing most everyone would cherish the opportunity to be asked this question. There are so few focused listeners who really care. What a gift to have these words offered to use by someone who genuinely cares.
This is a mantra I’m just starting to use—and. It is a wonderful one! I’ve never considered using it with God—but I’ll be trying that!
I love the intent of this mantra, to seek understanding. I find myself cautious to use the “That’s interesting” or “Interesting” part of it because I’ve been on the receiving end of those words where it felt dismissive or even judgmental. However, “Would you like to share more?” “I’d like to hear more” or “Help me understand” all feel open and invitational. I think this is an excellent example of how the same words can sound different to different people! 🙂