The Art of the Pause
When you are talking to your spouse or your children, how long after they finish speaking do you pause before you speak? (If you interrupt them, think of that as a negative pause.)
The pause in conversations with family members has so many benefits!
Let’s review just a few here:
The pause helps the other person to feel seen and heard. It means to them we are really considering what they are saying.
The pause gives us time to think about what we want to say back. We will be more likely to be wiser and less reactionary.
The pause teaches others to listen to us. When we respect their statements, they are more likely to respect ours.
Slow down and pause in conversations. Proverbs 18:13 says, “To answer before listening — that is folly and shame.” Let’s flip that proverb. “To answer after listening — with a pause — is wise and uplifting.”
Go try it! Like anything new, it will be awkward at first but over time the pause will help you connect with your family!
