The Power of Active Listening
Something to know:
“Active listening is not just hearing the words that are spoken, but understanding the complete message being communicated. It involves listening with all senses and giving full attention to the speaker.” - Dr. Carl Rogers, Psychologist, 2023
Something to remember:
Active listening is like tuning into a radio station; it requires you to adjust your focus to truly receive the message being broadcasted. Just as a clear signal provides better sound quality, focused attention enhances understanding and connection in conversations.
So, how do you practice active listening?
Start with full attention: Put away distractions, maintain eye contact, and show that you are engaged. Use verbal acknowledgments like "I see," "Go on," or "That makes sense," to encourage the speaker. Reflect back what you’ve heard by summarizing or paraphrasing to ensure clarity and understanding.
Something to share:
“Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.” - Stephen R. Covey
Share these 3 interesting insights with your friends…
Active listening can reduce misunderstandings - By focusing fully on the speaker, you can catch nuances and details that might otherwise be missed.
It builds trust and respect - People feel valued and understood when they are genuinely listened to, strengthening relationships.
Active listening can improve problem-solving - Understanding the full context and details of a situation allows for better and more effective solutions.
Something to do:
Listening Challenge:
The next time you’re in a conversation, practice active listening by putting away your phone or any other distractions. Focus entirely on the speaker, maintain eye contact, and use encouraging gestures and words. After they finish speaking, summarize what they said to confirm your understanding.
Try this with a friend, family member, or coworker and notice how it changes the quality of your interaction and the depth of your connection.