Try not to interrupt someone who stutters or stammers.

In this author’s opinion, it really helps when someone does not interrupt someone with a speech impediment when that individual is speaking. Why? Take it from someone who used to have a severe stammer. I call it the “Spilled Milk Syndrome.” As a child, if I ever accidentally broke a glass of milk or dropped a soup can for example, I was yelled at. This yelling from my parents might have added to my innate nervousness and consequently, I had difficulty in formulating words. However, my parents cared about my well being and were able to find speech therapists for me which in turn helped. Unfortunately, it did not solve my prevailing anxiety and I still stumbled over my words and was petrified to talk in front of groups of people.

How did I get over it? Although I still stammer from time to time, I found that through practicing talking with groups of people is very beneficial to reducing this stress and anxiety. Secondly, it helps me when I mess up when I talk to people. Let me expound on how this helps me. The more I mess up when I speak with others, the more I strive to make me try harder to get it right. It is definitely perfectionism and I absolutely love having this because it works for me. Now, in my 50’s, I am no longer afraid to talk in front of groups of people. I am no longer worried about asking a question to a stranger or someone I know. I don’t really care anymore if I mess up and forget someone’s name accidentally or embarrass myself when I talk with people.

I call it my”Force Field” and have built this protective sense of esteem and assurance around me that wards off me from getting down at myself for messing up. I want to face my trauma because it helps me tremendously grow into a more confident man. This may not work for everyone but is has helped me flourish.

Next time you are with someone who has a speech impediment, please let that person finish his or her sentence. She or he may have something wonderful to say and tell you about. You might be helping this person get over his/her speech impediment more than you realize.