Monday, August 29, 2011

A Day of Listening

Responsible communication skills involve respect for connection, harmony, and collaboration. Showing consideration for another requires listening, really listening to his or her concerns. Listening with intensity avoids anticipation of responses.


We become preoccupied with our own needs during simple conversations or in times of conflict. How easy it becomes to finish the other person's sentences.  We anticipate without listening to the full message.


If we remain aware of communication needs in any given moment, we have more power to meet them. This power differs from having control over someone. It shows ease and effectiveness in collaboration.


Take time today to listen. Do not make immediate responses.  Button the lips and make an effort to hear another's meaning. Watch facial expressions and body language. To keep the speaker on track,  nod your head or say, "Uh-huh" or "I hear you."


Repeat to yourself mentally what you heard without speaking.  If you can't make it all day learning to listen, at least try to do it with one person.


Creative Write: Write about your struggle to listen with all your senses. Could you set your ego aside and not interrupt?  How did the speaker respond? How will you use this new skill?

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