Published on 12, July, 2020
Lately I'm trying really hard to admit when I can't follow a conversation. I do this by saying 'I don't understand,' and most people are really helpful and respond by explaining what they mean in a way that makes sense to me. It means I don't have to pretend I know what's going on when I have absolutely no idea.
This doesn't always work though, some people react by repeating the same instruction a bit louder and by the third or fourth time they're shouting and I still have no idea what's going on. I am not an idiot, I just need things reworded sometimes. If I say this to the other person it often makes things worse (but at least it makes me feel better).
I have no solution but I thought there might be a few people on here who relate! Are there any things you wish other people would do differently?
Yes, can definitely relate to this too! As Aspergoose says, I also find that just to say "I don't get it" helps people to explain things in a way I understand. I get hugely distracted if the TV is on in the same room and usually just mute the sound so I can concentrate on someone's speech (rarely watch TV so this isn't a big problem).
I often had major problems interpreting people's instructions when I was working (currently not working here), and the suggestions here are very helpful - I'm going to make a note of them for when I re-enter employment.
People who just shout and think they'll then be understood are the idiots. They obviously don't realise it's the way they've explained something which is the problem...their problem!