HOW well do you listen to others? Do you let others finish speaking before you begin to talk? Give your full attention without judging or giving advice. Make eye contact. Listen in order to understand. Allow more time for those who reply in a few words. Ask questions when appropriate.

Some people talk so much that I don’t even have a chance to put in a word.

Listen to others the way you would like them to listen to you. We have a basic need to be heard and understood. Disagreements between people arise because of misunderstandings or a desire for control. Build a close understanding and harmonise your relationships.

We have two ears and a mouth. This means we have to listen twice more than we speak. We must cultivate a compassionate, listening attitude.

People want to be heard. By listening, we learn and show regard to the other person. Be patient in listening to others so that we understand their intentions and know how to respond to the situation.
We have to spare some time to listen to others. This is an act of charity. Enquiring after their welfare earns us goodwill and good wishes. This indirectly will help us play a role that will earn us applause.

THOUGHT FOR REFLECTION:

Attentive listening is a prerequisite to avoid any communication gap.

— By Bridget Menezes, author of Self-Empowerment. Her words of wisdom can also be heard on Lite FM (105.7) from Mondays to Thursdays at 7.45pm.