The Art of Tact

We will never know for certain, of course, but it is my hope that when physicist and mathematician Sir Isaac Newton took his final breath at the age of 84 in 1727, he did so with the satisfaction of knowing that he contributed much to the world. After all, coming up with what we now term the law of gravitation was and is no small thing. Another gift was a comment he once made regarding communication: "Tact is the art of making a point without making an enemy." When it comes to the interaction between individuals and even publics, this observation says much about the value of effective communication.


All of us communicate non-stop. Verbally and non-verbally there is never a time when we are not putting forth some type of signal. While we do not have total control over how others interpret our messages, the fact is we carry the heavy part of responsibility when it comes to the framing and intent of what it is we are trying to say. As this applies to tact, there is the matter of how sensitive we are to what is proper and appropriate in regard to our interaction with others. Ideally, the fundamental challenge with communication is to do so in a manner that ensures it will continue or "leave the door open." As social beings, the last thing we want is to communicate in such a way that shuts out others.


Obviously, there are times when people argue or disagree. After all, everyone brings their own perspective to a conversation. In addition, as creatures driven much by emotion, we tend to communicate at times without always giving as much thought to what we are saying or doing as we might. This is why at least some of our communicating lacks tact. The challenge, then, is for us to strive to be as tactful as possible or, to draw from another quote (author unknown). "to disagree without being disagreeable." I know. This is certainly easier said than done. But then, is that not the ultimate communication challenge?