Intentional Loving Series Day 12: Improve Your Listening Skills

Posted: 10 years ago | By: Christine Somers | In: Intentional Loving Series | Read Time: 1 minute, 15 seconds

"I like to listen. I have learned a great deal from listening carefully. Most people never listen." ~Ernest Hemingway

Listening is hard work, which may explain why so few of us actually listen to the people in our lives. At home and in public our attention is divided between the TV, cell phones or any one of a number of distractions that clutter our lives. The busier life becomes the harder it is to actually listen to what another person is saying. 

If you want to show your loved one you care, improve your listening skills and start actively listening. Here are 3 key points that can help you become a better listener. 

1. Give your loved one your undivided attention. This means look at them, turn off the TV or close the computer and don't immediately start to rebutt his or her comments when they start talking. 
2. Show that you are paying attention by nodding occasionally, making eye contact and smiling where appropriate. 
3. Show respect by responding appropriately. Be open and honest in your response while at the same time asserting your opinions respectfully. 

To actively listen shows love and respect for the speaker. To listen requires that we slow down and take the time to engage with the people we love. Would you want the people you love to do the same for you? Do you listen to your children, your grandchildren or your spouse? Do you take the time to listen? 

Hugs,
C

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