Question

Pick something about a teacher, friend, or family member that irritates you. Then pretend that you are talking to the person who is associated with this irritation. In the space below, write down what you would say to this person as a You message.

I discovered that I would say.....

2. Intention Statement
Now consider the possibility of sending a different message. How interested are you in actually using "I" messages with the person described above?
There are several possible levels of commitment. For example, you might choose to deliver a few "I" messages to this person and then see how well they work. Or vou might commit to using "I" messages on a permanent basis with this person and with other key people in your life. Describe your current level of commitment to using "I" messages

intend to..

3. Action Statement
Give some thought to exactly what you'll say if you do use this technique. Take the "You" message above and rewrite it as an I message

I will say......

Answer 1

Explanation:I am very interested in using "I" messages with the person described above. I believe that using "I" messages can help me express my feelings and needs more constructively and respectfully. I am committed to giving it a try and seeing how it works in my relationships with this person and other important people in my life.

Instead of saying "You always interrupt me when I'm speaking and it's annoying," I will say "I feel frustrated when I'm interrupted while speaking because it makes me feel like my thoughts and ideas aren't valued. I would appreciate it if we could work on actively listening to each other during our conversations."