The arts of being silent and listening are interconnected. They are also vital to having a happy and successful life. Here are 15 tips to help you get started.

1. It may be an old proverb, but it is still true: Silence is golden.

2. One reason silence is worth its weight in gold is that it prevents arguments. When applied thoughtfully it can also end them.

3. Listening makes it possible for you to know what the other person is thinking.

4. Active and interested listening, is a basic form of respect - one that is universally accepted and appreciated.

5. It does not matter if you believe in Creation or evolution, one fact remains either way: We have two ears and one mouth - suggesting we need to listen twice as much as we speak.

6. Listening to someone else virtually guarantees that they will listen to what you have to say.

7. Quick thought: It is no coincidence that when police read a person their Miranda rights the first thing they say is, "You have the right to remain silent".

8. You get into a lot less trouble listening than you do by talking.

9. People may complain about someone who talks too much, but when was the last time you heard someone complain about someone that listens too much?

10. Ask someone how they are doing, then really listen to their answer.

11. Try talking 25% less than you do now, for the next 10 days.

12. Try listening 50% more than you do now, for the next 10 days.

13. Pay attention not only to the words people say, but also to their tone of voice, facial expressions, and gestures. What are those things saying?

14. You cannot learn if you are the one talking. No lesson can be imparted to you. The benefits of what other people know are a treasure that can only be unlocked with the key of listening.

15. When you listen do not let your mind wander. If you find yourself thinking about something else ask the person talking to clarify their previous statement.

And that's fifteen tips for you. If you find it difficult to remember a specific tip while talking to someone, just remember to relax, be polite, and enjoy listening to what the other person has to say.