In order to work on this skill of understanding first before expressing myself, I will proactively enter a conversation or group discussion with understanding first in mind. I will pay attention to the speaker and listening actively. I will write something down if it comes to mind while another person is speaking. This way, I can come back to the topic of my choice after I finish listening. I think this workflow of understanding first before being understood will be easier in some situations than others. However, if I practice active listening first in every situation - including when I speak with my students about their projects and talking on the phone with a friend about how she is doing, I will have a greater chance of this mindset becoming a habit.
Teaching my Mayan GB students to seek first to understand and then be understood will be done by me setting an example first. Too often I have suggestions for their projects without even hearing their side of the story first. I want to make sure I give enough of an opportunity for them to express their thoughts to me before I explain my side of the story. I will practice using the sentence starter: “I think what you are saying is…” to clarify what they are telling me first. I will also explain to them why I am practicing this habit myself and explain how they can try it too. I hope that this leads to a better dialogue between them and me and amongst themselves in the group.