5 Steps to Improve Listening

There are times in conversation when we are thinking about our response before the other person is finished speaking. 

We interrupt without thinking, which is frustrating and dismissive to those around us.  Often it is a knee jerk reaction and the thought is out before you catch yourself.

 When this happens, our minds have left the moment.

 If we are thinking about something else while another is speaking, we are no longer present in the conversation. 

Try some mindful listening:

1. While the person is speaking, feel your feet on the floor.
2. If you feel the urge to speak, focus on your breathing to guide yourself back to what the person is saying.
3. Make eye contact while you are listening.
4. Have a 5 second rule before you speak (that is my husband's suggestion!)
5. If you are unsure about something stop and ask them what they mean, rather than feeling lost in the conversation.

Let me know in the comments below how this works for you.  If it did not work, what do you think happened?