Are you listening?
Effective communication is the foundation of any successful relationship, be it personal or professional. And one of the most crucial components of communication is listening. However, merely hearing what someone says is not enough; to truly understand and connect with others, I must practice active listening.
Active listening involves not only hearing the words someone is saying but also understanding their message, emotions, and body language. It requires focus, attention, and an open mind.
Listening with body scan
Body scanning involves paying attention to the speaker's nonverbal cues such as facial expressions, gestures, and tone of voice. The benefits of active listening are numerous. Firstly, it helps build stronger relationships by fostering trust and understanding. When I feel heard and understood, I am more likely to open up and share my thoughts and feelings.
Listening and devices
Use of devices has made it increasingly difficult for me to practice active listening. With iPhone, laptop and TV always turned on, I am easily distracted and disengaged during conversations. Not only do these devices divert my attention, but they also send a message to the speaker that I am not fully invested in the conversation Additionally, in the past, practicing mindfulness has helped me improve my ability to focus and be present during conversations.