The movie Forrest Gump touched, moved, and inspired people 20+ years ago. The life lessons from the movie are just as relevant today as they were back in 1994. They give the movie it’s timeless nature.
This series is dedicated to listing the many life lessons from the movie that we can incorporate into our daily lives to feel more peace and love … and to live our lives with Gumption.
Speak Directly and Succinctly
And that’s all I’ve got to say about that.
Forrest Gump spoke that phrase only three times in the movie. But it’s memorable. Why? Because all three times he uttered those words it was an exclamation point on something important.
- At the Washington Monument reflecting pool with Abbie Hoffman during the war protest
- On the park bench reflecting back on Bubba’s death in Vietnam
- At the end of the eulogy to his mother
Forrest spoke directly and succinctly. He got to the point. He said what needed to be said and then moved on.
Too often people babble on-and-on. Repeating themselves. Barely stopping long enough to breathe. Stories without a beginning, middle, and end.
- Is the language you use concise and succinct?
- Are you speaking directly and to-the-point?
- Are you holding people hostage with your never-ending monologues?
- Is your important message being lost in a babble of minutia?
The 3rd principle of Gumption is Graciousness. It’s defined as taking 100% responsibility for the way you interact with others. Being gracious includes speaking directly and succinctly.
And that’s all I’ve got to say about that!