Communication is the giving, and receiving of information. This article is about the receiving process, listening. Communication, is by definition, a give, and take of ideas, and needs. Too often, when we discuss something, we state our views, then mark time thinking of what we will say next, instead of truly listening to what the other person has to say.
How many times have you been in a group conversation, when everyone is so avid about what they want to say, that the whole conversation turns into a shouting match? We all have something to say, but without the patience to listen, communication breaks down into your average day on "The View".
Between everyone thinking they are right, and the mental clutter going on when you are not talking, it is a wonder anyone can learn anything.
Nobody learns anything by talking, only by listening. All wise people have one thing in common, they are good listeners. Perhaps that is why they are wise, they have mastered the art of listening.
Here is a great book for you to check out (I feel like Oprah), its called "the Zen of Listening" by Rebecca Z. Shafir, M.A.CCC. Ms. Shafir goes into detail how one can become a good listener. By mastering the art of listening, you open the door to learning, and you open the door to better relationships. This is true for any relationship, your spouse, your child, your boss, your employee, etc.
As important as it is to express yourself, it is more important to receive what the other person has to say, only then, can you work things out; only then, can you learn and grow together.
How many times have you been in a group conversation, when everyone is so avid about what they want to say, that the whole conversation turns into a shouting match? We all have something to say, but without the patience to listen, communication breaks down into your average day on "The View".
Between everyone thinking they are right, and the mental clutter going on when you are not talking, it is a wonder anyone can learn anything.
Nobody learns anything by talking, only by listening. All wise people have one thing in common, they are good listeners. Perhaps that is why they are wise, they have mastered the art of listening.
Here is a great book for you to check out (I feel like Oprah), its called "the Zen of Listening" by Rebecca Z. Shafir, M.A.CCC. Ms. Shafir goes into detail how one can become a good listener. By mastering the art of listening, you open the door to learning, and you open the door to better relationships. This is true for any relationship, your spouse, your child, your boss, your employee, etc.
As important as it is to express yourself, it is more important to receive what the other person has to say, only then, can you work things out; only then, can you learn and grow together.
5 comments:
I was going to leave a comment, but I decided to listen instead..
Hi Queen! That also sounds like a good idea. Thanks for your input.
I'm reading a book on communication called "It's not what you say, It's what they hear" which is a similar point you are making here. Check it out. It was on sale at Borders.
Correction: the Book is called "Words that Work". What I called it was its sub-title.
Hi Israel! This sounds like a very interesting book, thanks for the tip.
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