If you are having a great conversation with someone, which is more important:

• The words you are saying?
• Or the meaning you are trying to convey?

Most of us would choose the latter, but I believe both matter equally.

Why do I say that?

Clearly expressing meaning to your audience is essential. Being concise and intentional—especially in delicate situations—is a real advantage. In business, the ability to articulate ideas with conviction and purpose is indispensable.

That skill is not developed overnight. It takes months, sometimes years, to communicate belief and passion with clarity and substance — especially when presence becomes part of the message itself.

How you express your thoughts—the fire in your belly—matters just as much. Like a skilled debater, expanding your vocabulary helps make ideas engaging, persuasive, and memorable.

Understanding your audience allows your message to land with greater force.

I have struggled with both substance and wording. I often feel a rush of emotion—frustration, even isolation—when trying to communicate clearly.

Finding the right words at the right time does not always come easily, and my timing can still surprise me. Not always pleasantly.

I work deliberately to refine my conversational skills through precision, practice, and a bit of cunning. This applies equally to the words I choose and the meaning behind them.

Learning requires honest self-critique—but the payoff is worth the effort.

Do you focus more on choosing the right words, or making sure your meaning is understood?

Keep exploring: How clarity and energy reshape meaningful work »

Herb Silverman
Herb turns optimism into action by exploring how small ideas, shared stories, and simple connections can create meaningful change. Learn more about Herb »

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