Chapter 4, Discussion 2

     I have a hard time listening to the other party before I interject with my explanation. This is especially hard for me if I feel like I’m being attacked, because I instantly become defensive. When others talk, I am usually thinking about what I will say next, rather than being completely focused on the conversation that is taking place at that moment. After listening, I do not write down most of what the other person tells me because I do not feel the need to transcribe the conversation when I am lost in the moment. This is especially true for conflicts. I am usually too worked up with emotion to take the time to write down what is being said. I think that in many cases it would be a good idea to take notes during a dispute, because there can be accusations or further argumentation based on misunderstandings. Especially when serious emotion is involved, people can mishear or misconstrue what the other party is saying and cause further issues.