Let's Slow Down--Take Time to........

"Yeah, what do ya want?"

Seems to oftentimes be the greeting on the phone or across the counter at a store, or even in the doctor's office. And that is really NOT okay.

What has happened to treating all people with respect and dignity?

What has happened to just being polite?

What has happened to taking the time to politely listen, not to their entire life's story, but to listen to their excitement, accomplishments, pain, sadness, or worry? And to be supportive?

All of these questions were triggered in my mind when I met my new primary healthcare provider. We met for the first time. She didn't have time to listen. I know that they have HUNDREDS of patients, and that they are super busy. But part of caring for a patient is listening to the patient. Perhaps she was having a bad day....

Now as a former Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (for 42 years), who was trained in communication skills, I still made some awful and ridiculous statements to clients. Not okay!

So, I'm not asking any one of us to be perfect, or to solve other's problems. But I am asking us to try to listen, and to express caring and support. You know, treat other people the way you want to be treated.

Our world has us so busy, rushing to and fro, it's hard to slow down and just listen, and to take the time to be supportive.

But what do you think? Should we give it a try to slow down, listen, and to be caring and supportive?

To Your Courageous Self!

Edie Savage-Weeks

Transformational Life Coach

ediesavageweeks.com