The Art of Relationships

Author: Gu Min / Country: Mainland China
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-08-01
Features:
6. Quick Adaptability Effectively Utilize Adaptability to Handle Many Unexpected Situations in Spoken Communication, Avoiding Social Failures and Turning Risks into Opportunities. Quick Adaptability is an Instantaneous, Improvisational Response, More Than Just a Skill. It’s the Ability to Adjust to Changing Environments. This Skill Is Inseparable from the Listener’s Mental Agility, Emotional Self-Control, and Breadth of Knowledge.
Former French President Charles de Gaulle was very eloquent but, for prudence, always meticulously prepared for press conferences. Regardless of what the reporters asked, he generally skillfully deflected to questions he had prepared for and spoke confidently. However, unexpected questions were unavoidable. Once, a reporter from the opposition newspaper La Cité asked the elderly president about his health. Clearly, the question was somewhat insincere, appearing to care about the health of the head of state but actually having ulterior motives.
In response to this provocation, de Gaulle could not admit to being in poor health, as that would play into their hands, leading to a series of follow-up questions and sensationalized coverage, potentially destabilizing the national political situation. He also did not simply and plainly state that he was in good health, as that would seem weak and lacking in a sharp rebuttal. Instead, he replied, “Thank you, I am well. But please rest assured, I will die sooner or later!”
These words were calm and polite, yet conveyed a sense of disdain to the reporter. Thus, they reflected the demeanor of a great leader—graceful yet resolute. His artistic response left a deep impression on the French press, and reporters no longer made such mistakes or provoked such ridicule.
[Enlightenment] In spoken communication, unexpected events often arise. If one hasn’t been well-practiced, many people may find it difficult to handle them, leading to awkward, speechless moments, which is certainly embarrassing. If one reacts excessively to harsh, provocative words, making uncomposed or inappropriate actions, it will also be seen as lacking refinement. De Gaulle remained calm and composed, unflustered by surprises, just as Su Shi once said: “In the world, there are great men of courage—when faced with sudden adversity, they remain undisturbed; when unjustly attacked, they do not fly into anger. This is because they possess great strength and their aspirations are far-reaching.”
Great men, when interacting with others, handle major changes with composure. We should naturally emulate them. Even when facing small matters, one should remain rational, patient, calm, and composed, avoiding impatience, tension, and emotional reactions. P6