The Next Person Who Talks Over Me Is Getting Checked

Welcome to HER Haven, where we celebrate self-respect, empowerment, and the art of setting boundaries like a pro. Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s all too familiar for many of us: being talked over. Whether it’s in a meeting, a conversation with friends, or even during a casual chat, being interrupted or dismissed can feel frustrating, disheartening, and downright disrespectful. But here’s the thing—you don’t have to tolerate it. Let’s talk about why it happens, how it affects you, and most importantly, how to handle it like the confident, self-assured person you are.

Why Do People Talk Over You?

Let’s get one thing straight: being talked over is not a reflection of your worth or the value of what you have to say. Often, it’s about the other person’s need to dominate the conversation, their lack of self-awareness, or even their own insecurities. Sometimes, it’s rooted in societal biases—women, people of color, and other marginalized groups are disproportionately interrupted or ignored. But no matter the reason, it’s not okay, and you have every right to address it.

The Impact of Being Talked Over

Being constantly interrupted or talked over can take a toll on your confidence and mental health. It can make you feel invisible, undervalued, and hesitant to speak up in the future. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to let it dim your light. By learning how to assert yourself, you can reclaim your space and ensure your voice is heard.

How to Handle It Like a Boss

Ready to shut it down? Here’s your step-by-step guide to checking someone the next time they try to talk over you:

1. Pause and Hold Your Ground

When someone interrupts you, don’t rush to stop talking. Instead, pause, take a breath, and continue speaking firmly. This sends a clear message: I’m not done. If they keep talking, raise your hand slightly (like a stop sign) and say, “I wasn’t finished.”

2. Call It Out Calmly

Sometimes, people don’t even realize they’re interrupting. A simple, “I’d like to finish my thought,” or “I wasn’t done speaking,” can be enough to make them aware of their behavior. Keep your tone calm but assertive—you’re not asking for permission to speak; you’re stating a fact.

3. Use the Power of Repetition

If the person keeps talking over you, repeat yourself. For example:

“As I was saying…”

“Let me finish my point.”

“I’d appreciate it if you let me complete my thought.”

Persistence is key. Don’t let them steamroll you.

4. Leverage Body Language

Your body language can speak volumes. Stand or sit up straight, maintain eye contact, and use gestures (like a raised hand) to signal that you’re not done. Confidence is contagious, and people are less likely to interrupt someone who appears self-assured.

5. Address It Directly (If Necessary)

If the behavior persists, it’s time to address it head-on. Try:

“I’ve noticed you tend to interrupt me when I’m speaking. I’d appreciate it if you let me finish before responding.”

“It’s hard to have a productive conversation when I’m constantly being talked over. Can we work on that?”

This approach is direct but respectful, and it forces the other person to reflect on their actions.

6. Know When to Walk Away

Some people just won’t get the message, no matter how many times you check them. In those cases, it’s okay to disengage. You don’t owe anyone your time or energy, especially if they’re unwilling to respect you.

Why Speaking Up Matters

Setting boundaries around being talked over isn’t just about standing up for yourself—it’s about creating a culture of respect and equality. When you assert yourself, you’re not only reclaiming your space but also paving the way for others to do the same. Plus, it feels incredibly empowering to know you won’t tolerate disrespect.

Final Thoughts: Your Voice Deserves to Be Heard

At HER Haven, we believe in the power of speaking up and standing tall. The next time someone tries to talk over you, remember: you have every right to check them. Your thoughts, ideas, and opinions matter, and you deserve to be heard.

So, let’s make a pact: no more shrinking, no more silencing ourselves, and definitely no more letting anyone steal our spotlight. The next person who talks over you is getting checked—and they’ll think twice before doing it again.

Have you dealt with being talked over? How did you handle it? Share your stories and strategies at herhaven@martinaoneal.com.  Let’s lift each other up and create a world where everyone’s voice is valued.

With love and solidarity,
​HER Haven 💕