When was the last time you really felt listened to?
In this day and age of digital ‘social’ platforms, the art of listening has become nearly lost.
It can be easy to underestimate the power of truly listening to someone and the impact that can have on a person.
In fact, in my line of work I would say that it’s the single most important skill I have.
Without the skill of listening, all the tools and techniques I might apply to affect change are far less impactful.
The challenge most of us face is that we believe listening is thinking about trying to come up with something smart or clever to say while waiting for our chance to jump in and speak.
Rather than being present, in the moment, and connected with the other person, we are up in our heads.
Take a moment and imagine what it would feel like to truly be heard…
Really put yourself in that moment of being listened to. See it. Feel it.
Now, imagine someone you care about…
…you would like them to experience this too, wouldn’t you?
How might that enrich your relationship with that person now?
True listening is dropping out of your head and into the moment…
…recognizing that any feelings of insecurity are are just a reflection of those insecure thoughts that were up in your head. .
When you listen with not a lot on your mind something magical happens.
It creates a space for connection, understanding, compassion, love…
…all of which are true catalysts for transformation and change.
But do not take my word for it.
Experience it for yourself.
