h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I wonder if everyone in a relationship has to pretend to be interested in what their significant other is saying when they're trying to do something?

I think that this is a universal problem. I find that just distractedly saying, "mmm-hmmm, mmm-hmmm" until the loved one realizes that your attention is elsewhere for the moment usually works, and she/he will apologize for interrupting you. Of course, feelings could also be hurt and a big fight could ensue. Ah, love. Perhaps this is not helpful, but at least you know you are not alone.

That is quite true. When I feel myself in an awkward or negative situation, it seems that I'm the only one in the world who experiences it. I need to remind myself that others have and will be there. Like the time I woke up in the bathtub with that carp split open on my chest. Or maybe not...

It is true Virginia, there is no Santa Claus. I have asked around and the problem seems universal. No one likes to be interrupted mid activity, and no one likes to feel low on a list of importance. Most everyone is patient and pretends to be paying attention. If discussion is possible---> A useful fix for this is to have the significant other keep a note pad on which to jot notes about things to speak about when you are no longer in mid activity. % )

That sounds like useful advice. It would seem to me that it might lead to jotting down specific incidences of percieved offences. It could pack quite a wallop if the "discussion" became less than amiable. But then again, that might bring up some good points that need fixing.