Are you a good listener?

I, in the past, typically listened to respond but very rarely was I truly taking in what was being stated to me, especially if it was any form of criticism. Most of us, are more than likely guilty of doing the same, I’m just willing to admit it.

So, I’ll ask you again, “Are you a good listener?”

If you’re not, what are you consciously doing to improve that aspect of yourself? Being a good listener is crucial in all facets of life including relationships, careers, spiritual endeavors etc. I have pretty good ears so I can hear people but receiving what they say, that’s a different story sometimes and that’s because I’m a better talker than I am a listener but I’m looking to change that.

I know I’ll become a better listener by actively listening instead of listening with the sole intent of crafting my rebuttal.

I wasn’t raised by good listeners. Were you? I was raised by selective listeners and once I said something that they didn’t agree with or that offended them, they became rather deaf – they no longer heard anything else that I said after that controversial statement. I can be this way as well but, that’s why it’s best to truly listen and sometimes a response isn’t necessary, a simple, “Okay,” or an agreeable statement will suffice. Some people just want to be heard, they don’t actually need, value or want your opinion – they just want to talk.

One more time for those in the back.

Some people just want to be heard, they don’t actually need, value or want your opinion – they just want to talk.

I challenge you to start listening more than you speak – see what happens. Start today and if you’re as loquacious as I am, this may be a challenge but one that will be worth while. Learners are avid listeners. You will be a lifelong learner – hate it or love it. Listening is a skill, master it.

You got this!

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