Mastering an Exceptionally Powerful Skill
Wednesday, July 22, 2020 - Joe Kiedinger
Did you know, World Listening Day was just a few days ago? With all that’s going on in the world, we could use a little more of it.
The very core of listening comes down to this: giving dignity and respect to others. We’ve been teaching just that since Wisdom on Wednesday started in 2004—sixteen years ago! It’s amazing how quickly those years have flown by, but the message remains just as current as ever.
Many of us consider ourselves good listeners, but the reality is, we’re not. When others are speaking, do you ever find yourself forming a response while the other person is still talking, trying to find a spot to interject, outright interrupting or placing judgment on the speaker? Then, my friend, you’re doing it wrong.
So, how do we perfect the skill of listening?
- Be quiet
- Take it all in
- Keep an open mind
- Withhold judgment
- Picture what the speaker is describing
- Try to feel the speaker’s emotions
- After the person is done speaking, pause and think
- Ask clarifying questions
- Summarize what you heard
When you’re able to perfect this skill, you can provide a feeling of support and confidence in others—dignifying and respecting them.
JOE KIEDINGER
ACTION PLAN: Let’s all share some acceptance in an unaccepting world by upping our listening game. This skill is seriously underestimated and exceptionally powerful.