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About this quote

What does it mean?
Trying to one one-up others stops genuine listening and damages communication.
In plain terms
Stop trying to top others so you can actually listen.
What can you take from it?
Listening matters more than having the last word.

Where it applies

  • group discussions
  • debates
  • conflict resolution

Putting it to work

  • practice active listening
  • pause before responding
  • ask questions instead of statements

Questions to consider

  • When did you last stop to listen just to understand?
  • How does your ego affect your conversations?

Another view

Some competitive environments reward one-upmanship over collaboration.

More from Groucho Marx

  1. To write an autobiography of Groucho Marx would be as asinine as to read an autobiography of Groucho Marx.

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  2. Die, my dear? Why that's the last thing I'll do!

    Permalink to quote #21
  3. I find television very educational. Every time someone switches it on I go into another room and read a good book.

    Permalink to quote #18

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