The Tiny Signals

Myles Smith has impactful lyrics and great rhythms, but I’d argue what makes the emotional impact of his song so much more meaningful than others is his notes of “ohhhhhhhh.” (Stargazing for example)

Or consider the impact of the “blegh” in metalcore music; it’s an emotionally charged non-lexible vocable sound between lines in a song. (List of examples here)

The reverse can be said when it comes to public speakers. The “um” is a tiny signal that taints a speech and removes the moments for our brains to process what we’re hearing. (It applies um when it is um written um, too, um. See how hard um this um is to um process?)

It’s a tough challenge but consider being extra observant today of all your tiny signals. Are they enough? Are they the right ones?

Stay Positive & <3