03/17/24
How (and Why) to Improve Your Listening Skills
When individuals consider communication, they frequently concentrate on the ways in which they convey their ideas and feelings. However, the listener's role is another equally significant piece of the picture. It takes work, cultivation, and prioritization to become a better listener; it's not a skill that comes naturally to everyone.
Here are some strategies for improving your listening skills to build stronger relationships:
1. Cut down on interruptions.
Distractions can be found anywhere, whether it's your kids, the TV, an email from work, or your phone buzzing with a text. Although there is rarely an ideal moment to speak, you should still make every effort to avoid being distracted. Turn your phone to face down, mute the TV, face your partner, and make eye contact when they want to talk. These small actions show that you appreciate your partner and their opinions and that you are truly listening to them.
2. Set aside your schedule.
Finding out that the person you're speaking with isn't paying attention and is only waiting to interrupt you is one of the most annoying feelings you can have. Try not to assume anything about your partner's intentions or draw hasty judgments. Allow them enough room to present what happened in its entirety. Ask questions to learn more about what they have to say instead of focusing on your own feelings or ideas right away.
3. Pose more questions.
You can show your partner that you're paying attention by making thoughtful questions.
More significantly, it demonstrates your curiosity and openness to what your partner is sharing.
Asking open-ended questions is a terrific approach to give your partner the freedom to express themselves honestly and freely.
4. Restate what you heard.
A useful technique to make sure you comprehended what your partner said is to summarize what you heard. That's not to mean you should just repeat back to them what they said; instead, you should discuss their viewpoint and offer some of your own ideas. Prior to answering, make sure you've given your spouse enough time to complete their ideas. Nothing ruins a fantastic conversation more quickly than to cut off your partner mid-sentence.
*We are all capable of becoming better listeners with practice. You'll discover that improving your listening skills will enhance and solidify your bonds with your partner, family, friends, coworkers, and even complete strangers.
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