Let’s face it, we typically suck at listening.
I mean REALLY listening to someone. One main reason is that we, as men, are listening for a problem that we can fix. We are great solution-givers and if we don’t have an answer, we shut down. But that isn’t necessarily what is being called upon from those who seek to communicate with us.
The gift of listening to someone is to understand what they want.
Sometimes it might be a solution or a possible fix, but other times, it’s an exercise that allows the other person to vocalize what’s in their thoughts, thereby getting it out of their heads and into the world. No solutions required.
Try this the next time you engage:
- Ask if they are looking for a response.
- Listen to what is being said without judgment.
- Ask if you can ask clarifying questions
- Be mindful of your body language and facial expressions
- Thank the other person for allowing you in.
Let me know what you think.
