I’m a woman in my late 20s and I love talking to people.
Unfortunately my issue with conversations stems from the fact that I have been told that I do have a problem with letting other people speak. I have been told I am prone to interrupting and at times speaking over others.
When this was first brought to my attention I did my best to monitor myself and reduce the frequency of this complaint by actually changing my behavior.
However I still encounter this statement from time to time with my close friends. I always take accountability and apologize for the frustration or hurt that this causes them and try to be more intentional moving forward, but I would like to know how to be a better conversationalist in general.
I ask questions a lot in a bid to gain context and understanding. I have also been told that I can literally get anyone talking regardless of age, status, education level, class or gender and engage them in a meaningful conversation.
It hurts me that I have this issue and at times forget how to monitor myself which results in me dominating conversations.
How can I practice being more mindful and not let the sudden thoughts and questions slip out of my mouth before the other person is done talking?