Speaking very fast

[Alrex]

I know this isn't really a disability, but it was this or off topic

I was wondering what kind of excercises you guys would recommend for me. I speak EXTREMELY fast due to my parents (My mom is japanese and my dad is persian, both cultures speak really fast).

Plus as I was growing up everyone always used to cut me off so I had to speed up to get everything in.

It feels extremely weird and I feel like I sound stupid when I slow down, but after 20 years of speaking really fast it's hard to make change.

[teen spirit]

I know a lot of people who speak fast...and you are right-a comment is always made.

I think if it really is important to you to slow your rate down...practice doing it. You mentioned that it feels extremely wierd and you feel like you sound stupid but that is only because it is "different" from what you are used to. Making a conscious effort each time you speak will gradually bring the pace down to a level that you are happy with. Take a breath, and remind yourself to slow it down. In time, with lots of practice, you will find a speed that you are comfortable with and it will begin to become natural to you and to those listening to you.

You also mentioned that others would "cut you off" when you would speak...when people try to cut me off...I bring it to their attention that they are cutting me off as I was finished what I was saying (not in a rude way) and I find more times than not, that is a habit that they have gotten themselves into and it had nothing to do with me or the pace that I am speaking at. A laugh and an apology usually follows and then I continue what I was saying. I used to just let people cut me off but I feel that I am important enough to finish what I want to say! lol...

So again, just practice...that's all it takes. Change is not easy...staying comfortable and safe is...but with determination and persistance anyone can change anything they set their minds to...

I love your dancing chicken man! Makes me laugh every time I see it...