How to be heard

I’m not sure what to say today. I did a lot this weekend. Saturday I put up my sukkah. A sukkah is a temporary dwelling that Jewish build to celebrate Sukkot. Sukkot is a holiday to give thanks for a good harvest.

We as a family went to Niagara Falls to film a dance video. The video is to enter Michael Buble’s higher contest. It was fun to do. We did it at night so we could have fireworks in the background. I will post the video once it’s completed.

Today we decorated for Halloween. It was a beautiful morning to set up all our fun decor. I later, watch the Bills game, grilled, and spent time with my family.

I am thankful for all we did this weekend, yet I still feel unsatisfied. I believe I feel this because I don’t feel I am being heard. I feel this is true for many people. The question is how can I be heard better?

Well for me, I say something and there is a lack of acknowledgment. Or I say something and before I finish my thought, the other person interrupts his causing me to shout or just not say anything. Both shouting and not saying anything are not effective when you are not being heard.

So what are some effective ways to be heard. Take a step back, and let your feelings calm down, before discussing a difficult matter. Use “I feel….” instead of you When you say “you” it puts the person on the defensive. I have done this and felt this too. Third is to listen, and not come up with an answer before they have finished the question.

While this will take time. Hopefully, I can use these skills to improve my communication.