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by Jackie Damrau, Contributing Editor
Our parents always told us, "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all!" How often do you find yourself in a personal or professional setting wanting to chastise someone for something that they have done that you feel is inane or crass? I've often wanted to "open mouth, insert foot" for inane or crass things that I have said.
Well, Training magazine (Galvin, February 2004, p. 4) recently ran an article that talked about "The 4-Way Test" that I plan to put into action in the future. In 1932, Rotarian Herbert J. Taylor created "The 4-Way Test" when he assumed charge of a company facing bankruptcy. Everyone in the company was pointing fingers at everyone else. Taylor gave everyone a "test" to apply to his or her business and professional lives, and the answers became an eye-opener. To me, the test can be extended into our personal lives also.
Of special significance is that the Rotary International organization adopted Taylor's test in 1943. The test has also been translated into over 100 languages for others to use for personal introspection.
So, what is "The 4-Way Test"? It contains four questions that you can ask yourself when you hear something, are told something, or you are telling someone something. The four questions are:
Galvin says: "If you answer 'no' to even one of those questions, don't open your mouth. If you're on the receiving end, you are equally responsible. You should decline to participate in the conversation, and the onus is also on you to try to cut it off at the source."
So don't suffer from the "open mouth, insert foot" disease. As the summer months come upon us, and we take a break from our monthly meetings, reflect on the benefits you have received from this year's membership. If you feel you didn't receive anything special, send me email at jdamrau3@airmail.net. I want to find out how I can help you get the benefits you want (within reason) from the Lone Star Community.