YES…
Active listening is actually listening. It involves less time in your own head thinking about your response and more time focusing your attention and energy on the other person. Listening to understand links directly to comprehending and empathy. This then can lead to more meaningful conversations and deeper connections.
When engaging in active listening, listeners show improvements in their memory and attention span simply because they are focusing on what is being said and the person saying it. This suggests that listening can be a powerful tool for improving communication, personal connection and mental agility.
AND…
The result of active listening is relationship building. It is a basic human desire to be understood. It is the core of all our great relationships. When we show that we are actively listening, we engender the feelings of being heard by those who are speaking. Ultimately, this helps create psychological safety within our relationships.
Individuals who engage in active listening are more likely to have satisfying relationships. In fact, proper listening improves personal and professional relationships in a variety of ways, including reducing misunderstandings, cultivating connection, closing communication gaps, influencing the way you speak, and enhancing cognitive abilities.
25 FOR 25: #9
Practical ways to improve your listening skills:
- Put aside distractions (e.g. phones) and focus entirely on the person speaking.
- Ask open-ended questions (not yes/no answered questions), which can encourage the speaker to share more and provide greater insight.
- Practice empathy by emphasizing understanding and compassion to respond in a supportive manner.
- Start sentences with “Yes, and…” to force your brain to slow down to comprehend and connect with what your partner just said. *Remember: you cannot “Yes, and…” anyone without actually listening to what she/he/they has to say.
BONUS
Check out our favorite terrible business man, Gil Kaggis share his tips on how to communicate around the world.
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