Listening is one of the most important skills for a person to develop. Even though hearing is an involuntary bodily function it can be ignored or it can be controlled. Once we start applying a concious effort to what we are hearing then we tap into those very important and much needed listening skills.
One thing you want to do while listening is be an active listener. That means completely listen to what is being communicated.
One way to develop this skill is by being quiet when another person is speaking. You want to focus on what words are being said and process the message by letting your mind interpret it before responding too hastily.
You do not want to interject before the person has finished their statement and most importantly if a person is saying something about you don't get defensive and cut them off because you have not heard their entire complaint and they may not be complaining.
If you are not sure of what you heard try to paraphrase or even ask a question about what you think you heard.
Occassionally while communicating we interpret information wrong. It could be because the way the message was presented or how we the listener took it.
Next time you are communicating with another person try these few things and I am sure you will be a better listener and communicator.
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