3 ways to become a better listener

As the saying goes, “we have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak.” Listening is a crucial skill that is often overlooked but can greatly improve our personal and professional relationships. It’s also seems to be the most commonly used phrase during an argument. You know, the “you are not listening to me” statement. So with that being said, here are three ways to become a better listener.

Practice Active Listening

Active listening means fully engaging with the speaker, paying attention to both verbal and nonverbal cues. It involves being present in the moment, avoiding distractions, and giving the speaker your undivided attention. Active listening also means paraphrasing and summarizing what the speaker has said to show that you understand and to clarify any confusion.

To practice active listening, start by eliminating distractions such as your phone, computer, or other external factors. Then, make eye contact with the speaker and nod your head to show that you are engaged. Additionally, try to summarize the speaker’s message in your own words to ensure that you understand their point of view.

Develop Empathy

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. Developing empathy can help you become a better listener by allowing you to see the situation from the speaker’s perspective. It involves putting yourself in their shoes, acknowledging their emotions, and responding with compassion.

To develop empathy, try to imagine how the speaker feels and what they are going through. Acknowledge their emotions by saying things like “I can imagine how that would make you feel” or “That must have been really difficult for you.” Respond with compassion by offering support and encouragement.

Avoid Interrupting

Interrupting is a common listening barrier that can prevent effective communication. It involves cutting off the speaker before they finish their message, which can lead to misunderstandings and frustration. Interrupting can also indicate a lack of respect for the speaker’s opinion and diminish their confidence.

To avoid interrupting, wait until the speaker has finished their message before responding. Use nonverbal cues such as nodding or making eye contact to show that you are listening. Additionally, if you have a question or comment, wait until the speaker has finished speaking before raising it.