Have you ever been talking to someone, and you can tell, by the way they look and what they later say, that they probably weren’t paying much attention?  They were concentrating more on what they were going to say in answer to you.  Maybe you’ve even been aware enough to realize you’re doing the same thing and don’t really get what the other person is saying.

This happens all the time, but that doesn’t make it the best way to communicate with others.  What it means is that the ego of the person not listening has taken over and can’t wait to express itself.  And whenever the ego is involved, it’s a me thing.

Taking the time to really listen is the quickest way to greater understanding.  Really listening to what someone is saying can also provide a way to hear between the lines, so to speak.  By listening closely, we can sometimes hear what that person is not saying, and therefore be in a better place of understanding.

Use your power to listen. . .at home and at work.  If you are at your best and truly want communication to improve, you will be listening, not just talking.  Listening well is a skill, one that anyone can develop.

May your skills be developed to their fullest,

Lana Keating