This was the simple yet insightful observation from our nine-year-old. And I loved it as the perfect metaphor for explaining communication styles.
From one perspective, it’s a lovely way of saying she prefers reading while I like writing.
But it also describes how we engage, express our thoughts, and connect with others.
A “bookworm” thrives on information. They are someone who listens and sees the world, takes in ideas, processes them, and thinks critically.
To become a better communicator, support your inner bookworm:
📖 Practise active listening
📖 Ask open-ended questions
📖 Make time for reflection after absorbing new information.
On the other hand, a “pencil worm” (me, apparently) is about action and expression. They express through writing, they generate ideas and take risks by sharing their perspectives.
In communication, pencil worms are the creators and storytellers. They drive conversations, brainstorm new ideas, and inspire others to take action.
Embrace your pencil worm skills by:
✏ Practising clear and concise writing.
✏ Using stories to illustrate complex ideas.
✏ Developing a voice that is authentic and engaging.
Effective communicators understand the value of being both a bookworm and a pencil worm. They aren’t just taking in information and putting it out there — they combine listening and speaking, receiving and sharing, processing and creating.
Whether you identify more with the bookworm or the pencil worm, remember that effective communication requires both.
