Genuine listening has become a rare gift—the gift of time. It helps build relationships, solve problems, ensure understanding and resolve conflicts. Yet, why is it we seem to devote less and less time to really listening to one another?
If your goal is to fully understand and connect with the other person then listening effectively will often come naturally.
1) Stop Talking
When your husband is talking listen to what he issaying, do not interrupt, talk over him or finish his sentences for him.
2) Prepare Yourself to Listen
Listening is not the same as hearing. When you are ready to listen, relax and focus on your husband. Put other things out of mind as the human mind is easily distracted by other thoughts.
3) Remove Distractions
Focus on what is being said, for example, don’t doodle, shuffle papers, look out the window etc. Avoid unnecessary interruptions. These behaviours disrupt the listening process and send messages that you are uninterested in what he is saying.
4) Empathise
Try to understand your husband’s point of view and look at issues from his perspective. By having an open mind we can more fully empathise with him.
5) Show your Interest
Nod occasionally, smile at your husband, and make sure your posture is open and inviting. Encourage him to continue with small verbal comments like “yes” or “uh huh.”
References:
Mind tools
2013 Forbes
Originally posted 2013-10-31 00:05:00.