How often do we find ourselves in a conversation and notice that we are formulating our next response rather than listening to what’s being said? Have you ever noticed someone who responded to something you just said as if they never heard it? We are so afraid of a few seconds of silence while we formulate a thoughtful response to what has been said that we often times respond to something that was never said! Perhaps we are afraid people will think we are bored or not very bright if it takes us a moment to respond. What would happen if we began our conversations by saying, “if it takes me a second to respond to what you say it’s because I really want to listen and respond thoughtfully?”