The Art of Listening
Listening is erroneously taken as hearing but in the real sense of it, they are entirely different in all ramifications.
Hearing can be referred to as being passive, a process of perceiving sound with no particular intent on the part of the receiver. On the other hand, listening can be referred to as being active. It involves a deliberate act by the perceiver of the sound to comprehend and give meaning to the sound he/she perceives.
Listening demands apt attention. Listening is an art that can completely transform our lives in unimaginable ways.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF LISTENING
The significance of listening cannot be overemphasized. It brings about promotion of effective communication, fostering of trust and building of true and absolute connection.
When we truly listen, we show respect and care for others. This makes them feel valued and understood. It strengthens our relationships, both personally and professionally.
When adopted in the workplace, effective listening can lead to better collaboration and effective/optimum problem solving. When it comes to education and students, it can improve learning and comprehension.
MASTERING THE ART OF LISTENING
▪️ Be Available: One crucial aspect of effective listening is being available. It is better to get information from the horses mouth than being told. At the time an event, meeting, class etc is scheduled, you have to be present. This also entails doing away with every form of distraction and giving your optimum attention to whoever is taking the lead. Your ability to do this portrays your interest in what is going on.
▪️Active Participation
Actively Participate with whoever is leading. Your attention should be fully focused on him/her.
▪️Have an Open Mind
Participate with an open mind. Don't be available with assumptions and premeditated answers to questions. Be ready to learn and draw wisdom and you will see yourself listening effectively.
▪️Ask Questions
Ask Questions. This further gingers and encourages the lead to elaborate more on a give area for better understanding. Don't assume perceived the words and you quite understood it.
▪️Take Notes and Reflect
Taking brief notes from the leads presentation and reflecting on them will ensure that you clearly understood the message passed.
▪️ Don't Interrupt
Avoid cutting the lead off in-between presentations. Allow them to clearly communicate their message with interruption. This will allow for a continuous flow of presentation and active participation by listening.
Through active listening, we can build deep connections and enhance our level of understanding. We can further our conversations.
In an age where distractions of various magnitude abound, mastering the art of listening had never been more crucial.