What are you having a hard time listening to?
August 11, 2020
What are you having a hard time listening to?
You probably have a dozen answers to my question. Could be the media, CDC, Washington, local school news, complaints from all around your day, business, or family issues. When we begin to shrink from that which we do not want to hear or that which we judge is not worth hearing, we stop listening well. The conversations we are having could easily be stilted and misguided because we think we know what someone means and what they are about to say.
Listening is actually a choice because so much of the world is shouting at us…or so it feels. What if you clearly define what you will and will not listen to and then see how you are responding? Most of our listening could be categorized as “waiting to talk”. Good listening is being present. Great listening is being present, not judging what you think is going to be said, and contributing to the discussion/outcome if requested.
Ask a colleague and/or friend what they think of your listening skills. You might be surprised. And you can always take the NMA Listening Test. It is remarkable to find out what we are doing or not doing well with this key communication skill.
May I help? CoachNatalie@NatalieManor.com
Natalie R. Manor
Natalie R. Manor is a consultant, executive business coach, speaker, 5 time author and extraordinary facilitator. Her consulting firm, Natalie Manor & Associates NMA, has attracted global success seeking clients and organizations for 30+ years.
