Welcome back and I hope you are thriving! Last week’s Thought was about finding our authentic voice, being true to ourselves and our values so we connect more deeply with others and pave the way for greater success and fulfilment.
If you missed it, you can catch up here.
This week let’s tackle a common conundrum: handling interruptions while staying true to ourselves and fostering meaningful connections.
In our fast-paced world, interruptions are inevitable. Whether in a meeting, during a conversation with a loved one, or while working on an important project, these disruptions can test our patience and focus. However, managing interruptions gracefully is crucial to maintaining our authenticity and building strong relationships.
Navigating interruptions is challenging. It requires balancing the need to assert ourselves with the desire to be respectful and empathetic.
Interruptions can make us feel unheard or devalued, leading to frustration and a loss of connection. Yet, they also offer opportunities to practice patience, reinforce our boundaries, and deepen our understanding of others.
Three Powerful Tips to Handle Interruptions Authentically
- Set Clear Boundaries
Ideally, in a team setting, you will have the opportunity to set boundaries clearly and respectfully. When we set expectations for when and how interruptions are acceptable, we create an environment where everyone feels respected.
How to Apply: At the start of a meeting, gently remind everyone of the importance of allowing each person to finish their thoughts. Whoever is facilitating can then manage this and ask those who are perhaps quieter what they think.
In personal conversations, if the topic is something you would like their view on, you would first ask them for this. In a feedback session you would first ask them what is going well, and then what they find more challenging and listen to this before offering any feedback you have.
In a situation where you want to express your need for uninterrupted time, you could say; “I value our conversations and would love to hear all your thoughts once I’ve shared mine.”
- Pause and Acknowledge
When interruptions occur, pausing and acknowledging the interrupter can diffuse tension and show that you value their input. It’s about striking a balance between holding your space and being open to others.
How to Apply: If someone interrupts, calmly say, “I appreciate your input, let me finish this point, and then I’d love to hear your thoughts.” This approach demonstrates respect for both your perspective and theirs.
In a situation where you find it difficult to interject during a discussion to put forward a point, simply show your hand (keeping your elbow on the table and not putting your hand up like we did at school) and say, “May I add to that?” What this does is validate what the speaker is saying while asking to put your point across.
- Practice Active Listening
I know I always stress this in my thoughts, and I do that because it is absolutely key! Active listening involves fully engaging with the speaker, showing empathy, and responding thoughtfully. By practicing active listening, we model the behaviour we wish to receive, encouraging others to listen without interrupting.
How to Apply: Show that you are listening by nodding, maintaining eye contact, and summarising what the other person has said before adding your perspective. For example, “I hear that you’re concerned about the timeline. Let’s explore that after I finish outlining my proposal.”
Embrace the Balance:
Handling interruptions while staying authentic is a delicate balance. It requires a combination of setting boundaries, pausing to acknowledge others, and practicing active listening. By embracing these techniques, we can navigate interruptions with grace, maintaining our authenticity and building stronger connections.
Remember, each interruption is an opportunity to practice patience, empathy, and assertiveness. As you apply these tips, notice how your interactions become more respectful and connected.
“Graceful handling of interruptions is a sign of a composed and confident mind.”
-Nelson Mandela-
Wishing you a week filled with mindful conversations and meaningful connections.
With warmest wishes,
Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering You to Thrive!
P.S. Please feel free to share your experiences and insights with me! And if you haven’t booked your complimentary Clarity Session with me yet, click here to book a time that suits you.
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