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Listen Up

This blog has devoted a lot of time to the topic of listening.  I am just reminded over and over and over again how important it is to learn the skill of active listening.  I've sure you've noticed, as I have, that it is in drastic decline.  When someone is talking to us, do we in some way let them know we’re hearing while giving them time to complete their thoughts.  I hear it all the time, "I have to jump in “while it’s on my mind."

 I have to confess that I’m not the best listener in the world. I’m good for the first few minutes…wish I could say I’m able to listen actively, engaging in the communication in such a way that the other person knows they’re in a safe spot to be honest and transparent. I guess wishing isn’t enough, though, is it? I can wish all day, but until I take responsibility for my less than great listening skills, nothing changes. In other words, saying “well, that’s just the way I am” doesn’t really work, right?

 We all deserve to be heard. Of course, there’s a right time and not so right time to get things off our chests, but let’s work on the part of becoming better at saying “I care” by slowing down long enough to be a listening friend or loved one. We may end up being just about the best influence ever in someone else’s need to be heard.

Comments

  1. UnknownJune 15, 2017 at 8:49 AM

    This is good stuff, Ann. Most of my listening now is via email or blogs. I love yours.

    ReplyDelete

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