The Three Languages of Success

I recall a story I believe was called "The Elephant and the Three Blind Men." The three men on a journey came across an elephant. And to satisfy their curiosity about what kind of creature an elephant is, they each grabbed a hold of it. As each man touched the elephant in a different place; one touched the leg claiming it is like a tree, another the trunk and said it is like a snake, while the third grabbing hold of the tail exclaimed it is like a rope. Even though each blind man had only touched a portion of what was really there, each constructed a reality based on their limited information. Perhaps with the other two components, their assessment would have been more accurate.

Now that happens in our everyday communication as well. Some people are using primarily visual language, while others use auditory language, and others still, use kinesthetic language.

So what does that mean in English?

Look, I know this may be something completely new for you and hopefully some more specific information will shed some more light on the subject, giving you more clarity on the matter.

While this sounds like something you may have heard before, it might not be clicking into place just yet. But if you were to take a moment to really tune in to how simple this all really is, I am sure you'll gradually begin to listen to those special distinctions.

And it is only when you grasp that at even a deeper level, will you begin to get a feel for the changes that are possible, not only within yourself, but for others that you care about in your life. Now I am not sure how well this sits with you, but you know when you have that connection, some call it a "gut response," and that is when you know for sure.

Now the above three paragraphs say a whole lot of stuff without saying anything really. Yet for most of you, one of the three paragraphs will either look right, resonate well with you, or just feel right. It depends on the words used. The words form the language.

Visual Words:
look, see, clear, fuzzy, clarity, bright, light at the end...

Auditory Words:
sounds, listen, resonate, clicks, tune, buzz, rings true...

Kinesthetic Words:
feel, grasp, grab, touch, get a handle, brush up...

These are just some of the words or phrases that people use. Successful people pay attention to not only their own language, but also those of other people as well. And they use all three to make sure they are connecting with each person in their own language.

So begin by listening to your own language, which language flows from you most naturally, and then begin using the ones you don't use as frequently. Also listen to others and mirror back to them their ideas in their own language. Understand?

"I see what you mean."
"Yeah, that sounds right."
"I have a feeling that'll work."

Play with this, have fun, and surprise yourself!