W.A.I.T. = Why am I talking?
Updated: Oct 18, 2022
"Those that fight don't listen, those that listen don't fight." Frederick Perls
I heard this acronym, W.A.I.T., in a Non-Violent Communication (NVC) class, and it struck me as something I needed to hear. I tend to talk a lot.
By taking a moment to "W.A.I.T" and asking myself, "why am I talking?", I can become aware of my own needs and the needs of those listening. When someone listens to me, I ask for their attention and life energy. I want to respect that.
My excessive talking tendencies:
I find when I am feeling nervous, I tend to ramble. Sometimes I'm nervous because I drank too much coffee. Sometimes I worry that the other person is judging me. After my long rambles, I often feel embarrassed and realize I have not considered my listener's needs.
After my long rambles, I often feel embarrassed and realize I have not considered my listener's needs.
How I am practicing W.A.I.T.:
First, reminding myself of the W.A.I.T. acronym.
Then, letting there be a few moments after I think someone has completed their thought before opening my mouth. PAUSING.
When I catch myself rambling, verbally acknowledging it. "I just noticed I've been talking for the past few minutes...what are your thoughts on this?"
If someone is telling a story and I am itching to share a similar story, I think first...Am I one-upping or comparing my story to theirs? What needs of mine will be met by sharing this story? Am I leaving adequate room and acknowledging their story to completion before sharing mine?
Awareness if the first step towards becoming our more ideal self. I'd love to hear your thoughts! Please share below in the comments!
Cheers!
Erika Baum
Relationship Coach
My mission is to help you raise your self-worth and have connected and meaningful relationships. You deserve to feel empowered, secure, and loved!
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