“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.

Hands up if you are guilty of being the talker?