Have you ever been talking and then been interrupted?  How does it feel?  What are you thinking about while the person who interrupted you is talking?

You are probably either thinking about how rude it was that you were interrupted or you are trying to remember what it was you still wanted to say.  Either way, you are not fully listening to what the other person is saying.

The same holds true for others, too.  If you think of something that needs to be said, make a mental note and wait until the other person is finished expressing themselves.  Then they will be ready to listen to what you have to say.

Often times there are also many levels to what a person is trying to say or work through.  They may seem to be really angry about not being able to play with a friend this afternoon, but what is making them angrier than usual is that another friend is moving away soon, and they are starting to feel very out of touch with their friends.

When there is conflict, let the other person talk it out.  Maybe you can get to these root needs and come up with some solutions.

When letting someone fully express themselves, try some of these leading questions:

• Is there anything else?
• Is there more?
• Tell me more.