How to Stop Interrupting People

Try these 3 things for a week and see what happens

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I am that person who interrupts constantly.

I’ve read books on how to communicate well and know theoretically how to be an active listener. However, mix in ADHD and a bit of anxiety, and none of it is holds true. I went searching for practical tips my ADHD brain could use immediately and have a significant impact.

Here is what I found:

Do this for a week and see what happens:

1. Count to 5 in your head after someone speaks. Be comfortable with silence. It won’t feel normal for you, but trust me, it is. Don’t just jump in as soon a the last person finishes talking. Count my friend, count in silence. These few seconds of silence make the other person feel heard and understood. Give them that warm fuzzy.
2. If you are in a group setting, just let someone else carry the conversation forward. Be an observer for a week. If you do talk, make it a probing question about the other person or their story. Do not add any of your own stories or experiences.
3. You will already have the next thing to say ready in your head. Don’t say it. Every time a ‘me too’ or ‘I heard’ type story comes to mind while the other person talks, vow NOT to tell it. See…