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Free-Range Opinons

 

I have noticed during this time of sheltering in place that my tendency to have and express free-range opinions has grown.  I cannot stop the running commentary on everything. When the TV is on I find myself pausing to comment or just shouting out at the TV. 

 

I caught myself wanting to comment on friends (and sometimes friends of friends) Facebook posts.  And, no one asked for my opinion.  I had to stop myself and backspace and close the tab.  I get notions all day long to write so and so or call or text or just make an observation.  It is a dangerous habit.

 

Being observant is a good thing and I have a curious and problem-solving mind.  I like thinking things through to their logical conclusion.  I believe it is important to pay attention to my surroundings and being present.  However, giving unwanted or unsolicited feedback is not what I want to be doing. 

 

I believe that this remarking out loud to the news or whoever is in the room is seeping into my phone calls and video calls.  I found myself interrupting more because I lost the rhythym of conversation.  I realize I don’t pause as much between sentences as most people but I had fallen out of the habit of consciously pausing. 

 

I became aware of this a few weeks ago and have been making a concerted effort to stop it.  I can make a note if something is important enough to share.  I can stop spending time on Facebook.  I can pause for 3 more seconds on a phone conversation before speaking.  I can breathe more deeply and think before I speak. 

 

I can remember that unless someone asks me what I think, I don’t need to share it.  And, most of all, I am consciously giving myself a break because isolation itself is contributing to the need to speak aloud just to hear a voice besides the TV. 

 

So, we can all cut each other a bit of a break.  It is a complicated chaotic time and any number of unhealthy habits could be acquired.  Be gentle on yourself and pay attention to right now.

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