Active Listening
Dialogues that create deeper understanding are shaped by Active Listening.
Yet, Active Listening does not happen automatically.
It is a skill that needs time and practice.
Active Listening needs AWARENESS that:
Sometimes we judge.
Sometimes we simply tune out.
Sometimes we listen only to what we understand.
Sometimes we stop listening to start crafting responses.
Active Listening needs COURAGE to:
Face our fear.
Overcome our discomfort.
Openly witness the reality of the 'Other'.
Allow the person's story to impact our perspective.
REMEMBER:
Active Listening is not about agreeing or disagreeing with someone. It is an active effort to better understand the other person's life story and experience.
“The most basic of all human needs
is the need to understand and be understood.”
Ralph G. Nichols
