“Are you listening or are you just waiting for your turn to talk?“
My bestie was telling me about this quote last year. I hadn’t actually heard it before… I mean, I knew it was common courtesy to listen, but the quote was ringing in my ears…. “waiting to talk?” I have probably been guilty of this. I felt a little annoyed with myself and wondered how many times had I done this??
Have you thought about how often you might interrupt someone? Are you just waiting for them to pause in a conversation because you have something to say? Do you finish someone else’s sentences? Do you always bring the conversation back to you??
About a year ago I decided to never ever forget this quote and I have been REALLY taking note of my actions and my voice when someone else is talking. I’ve learnt a lot I think.
I’ve found myself in so many conversations recently and in my head I am silencing that inner monologue. The thing is, I’m am always thinking about what is next or what else I have to get done. However, I have realised that once I calm myself and really listen, I am forging better friendships and relationships, rather than trying to run on to the next thing… It felt good and I am sure it’s been appreciated.
Seems so simple.
I’ve also been listening to how other people wait to talk. It’s really jumped out at me now that I seem to so much more aware of it. I feel like I want to print up this quote on a business card and hand it to them, with a little shrug of my shoulders.
I have always got a lot of conversation, I love to talk! But I have been trying to tone it down a little. Are all my words necessary, or just ramble schmable?
Try it out! When you’re in a group next time also see if you can spot people who already get this quote? You’ll also notice some people are just so good at listening.