[glasses17]

For most of my life I've never been a very patient person.
I interrupt people when they're talking, I finish nearly every sentence someone has to say, and if I don't feel like listening to someone or contributing to the conversion, I will completely disregard them, or talk to them coldly and bluntly. Overall I come across as pretty rude. These behaviors are especially bad if someone is speaking to me about something sad, troublesome, etc., which immediately makes the situation worse when I behave the way I do.

Don't get me wrong, I genuinely feel bad after doing these behaviors, but I get so lost in the moment of being impatient/agitated that I don't realize/care what I'm doing until after I've done it, and by then the person who is trying to talk to me probably feels pretty unimportant.
I don't want to be a jerk anymore. How do I become more patient and less agitated when speaking with people?
Thank you in advance!

[Keyslost]

I think everyone can get this way once in awhile. That being said if it really bugs you then practice listening. Also you could ask them if you're acting rude. If they say no then it may just be the fear of being rude? Actually I'm pretty sure you helped me with my stuff earlier? I'd say you're good at listening and understanding.

[Thunder Bow]

It depends what the conversation is about. Many can be boring and seem to drag on forever. Thus the urge to interrupt will be strong. Use tact, to change the conversation. In more exciteing conversations, one may interrupt out of excitement.

i'm exactly like this. practicing listening, counting down until you can speak, trying to focus your attention on particular things, practicing empathy - these all help.

[gayleggg]

I get that way, especially with my husband. And like you I regret it later.

I find that I'm worse when my mood is off, especially if I'm anxious, so for me I try to find ways to calm my anxiety, like breathing exercises or listening to a relaxation tape or app. Once I relax I seem to be able to listen better.

Unfortunately, I'm not very good yet about catching before I'm rude. By then it's too late and I've already hurt his feelings, but I keep trying to be more patient in hopes of catching myself before I open my mouth.