Joseph Goldstein gives a talk (about 56 minutes) on Right Speech, one factor of the Buddhist Eightfold Path to awakening. He describes right thoughts and understanding as tending to yield right speech.
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Joseph Goldstein talk on Right Speech
JG
Joseph GoldsteinPublished August 20, 2016 · Updated October 21, 2026 · 1 min read
Printable Worksheet
What Do You Want to Say
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A mindful companion to this worksheet
Bringing mindful attention to what do you want to say
How we speak and listen shapes every relationship we have. “What Do You Want to Say” is an invitation to notice the small gap between what comes up in you and what you say, and to notice the quality of attention you bring when someone else is talking.
How mindfulness can help
Mindfulness can take some of the reactive edge off speech. Pausing to feel the body, the breath, and your intention before words come out leaves room for clarity and kindness. Listening changes too. There is less rehearsing a reply and more taking in the person in front of you.
Gentle steps to try
- Pause first. Before responding, you might take one full breath and let the in-breath finish before any words form.
- Name the intention. Quietly ask yourself what you most want this conversation to support. Let the answer guide your tone.
- Say what is true, kindly. Choose words that are honest, useful, and kind. If only two of the three are there, it may be worth waiting.
- Listen as the receiver. When the other person speaks, soften your gaze and feel your feet. Notice any urge to interrupt, and let it pass.
There is no perfect conversation, only this one, met with as much presence as you have today. Be gentle with the moments you wish you had handled differently. They are part of the practice too.
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