The Art Of Blurting

What is a “blurt”, you may ask and how can it possibly be valuable? For our purposes  “blurting” is the act of speaking out your thoughts before you have completely thought them through.

Your first reaction may be fear or even, Kate, you are a bit crazy. Fears of being misunderstood are most common or perhaps concern that people will think less of your abilities as a thought leader. Blurting, at the right time for the right purpose brings exponential value to you and your team…

Blurting Artfully can be a fabulous brainstorming method. Think of times when you are working with a team and you are trying to create a new process or concept.  It is almost impossible at first to speak or even think in full sentences, especially when the concept is in its germination stages. Many team members’ fear sounding foolish and or saying the “wrong” thing. Blurting in this instance can get ideas and thoughts on the table for yourself and others to mull over, and perhaps the team will then be able to refine these blurts from germination to genius. Blurting in this instance becomes a starting point for brilliant brainstorming, a fun way to get unstuck and create momentum.

So what is the “art” around blurting? Very simple, BEFORE you blurt, let your audience know that that is what you are doing. This warning will eliminate possible misunderstandings and get their expectations in line with what you are sharing. This also gives the team permission to refine and work with your blurtings.

“Artful Blurting” is a learned habit that can be cultivated by leaders and managers of teams including your own team of one if you are a solopreneur.