When we listen, we learn.   When we listen, we engage.  When we listen, we provide support.  Learn to listen, and see what you’ve been missing.

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Listening without thinking about what you are going to say, is a skill that some people possess.  As you learn to truly listen to others, and “hear” what it is they are saying, you will find that there is much to hear.

Often times, we are so caught up in speaking, that when someone else is talking, rather than listening, we simply “wait to speak.”  We are thinking about what we are going to say, rather than in engaging and understanding what it is someone is trying to convey to us.

The wisest of people seldom speak, and listen intently.  They understand the importance of hearing what others feel is important enough to express.  If you truly respect someone, you will listen to them.  If you truly care about someone, you will listen to them.  Stop thinking, and begin to listen.

How many times do children feel like they are not being heard.  Do you think the tantrums, and outbursts might be an indication of their frustration?  When you ask about their day, and they go on a long dissertation about every detail, do you tune it out, thinking about something else?  Do you tune out those closest to you?

What would happen if you gave every person that you encounter today, your total, undivided attention?  Do you think they would notice?  Do you think you would feel more of a connection to those people?  Just maybe, they will return the favor to you, however, that is not the motivation for listening.  The motivation for intently listening, is to provide others with the respect that they deserve.  If they feel what they are saying is worthy of speaking it, it is respectful to listen.

Wait to talk, until there is a good pause in the conversation.  See what happens when you do that.  Take in what the other person is saying, during that pause to formulate your response.  Slow down, and let go of the need to voice your opinion.  Everyone has an opinion, but few people listen to those opinions.  Be that person.

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Today is the perfect day, to open your ears, shut down your mind and engage with those around you.  Be there for whoever wants to talk, and enjoy hearing what it is they have to say.  If you keep your mind open, you might just hear what it is you’ve been waiting to learn!

Written, Thu Apr 2, 2015 8:07 – 8:16 AM MDT