A tendency to interrupt

I remind myself every morning: Nothing I say this day will teach me anything. So, if I’m going to learn, I must do it by listening.

~ Larry King

A few days ago, I was talking to a friend over the phone and found myself so excited about the topics she brought up that I eagerly interrupted to share my thoughts and enthusiasm.

Reflecting on the conversation, I was disappointed in myself.

Having become a major consumer of health-related podcasts, which allow me to drive and move while learning, I admire interviewers who listen thoughtfully before responding.

In fairness, it is tough to demonstrate engagement and empathy using non-verbal communication (head nodding, smiling, frowning) in non-visual phone conversations.

However, because I have such a busy mind and am passionate about physical, emotional, and social determinants of health, even in person, I tend to interrupt to add insights—lest I forget. 

Make attentive listening a habit

Wisdom is the reward you get for a lifetime of listening when you’d have preferred to talk.

~ Doug Larson

I want to be a good role model and aspire to become a more effective communicator.

Interrupting the person speaking is a habit that does not serve me well.

Having the patience to wait for natural breaks in the conversation to ask questions and add value, is respectful.

Having a notepad by my side to jot down thoughts I’d like to share will alleviate my fear of forgetting.

Awareness helps create change, and sharing my vulnerabilities with others helps hold me accountable.