Why is it so hard to listen and What to do about it

Why is it so hard to listen and What to do about it

Assumptions: You think you know what the person is going to say so you don’t listen or you interrupt to fill in the gaps.
Solution: Listen with an open mind.

Bias: You let the person’s outward appearance or opinions block you from truly hearing what is said.

Solution: Don’t focus on any one thought or emotion that you have.

Control: You feel the need to interrupt, rush and/or correct what the person is saying.

Solution: Listen with your heart as well as with your ears remembering the importance of relationship. Maintain a relaxed, non-hurried posture that communicates at their agenda is important to you. Don’t be petty.

Distraction: You lose attentiveness because you think faster than they speak so you think about what you are going to say next.

Solution: Stay in the moment. Hang on to every word. Refrain from planning ahead to what you will say. Maintain eye contact which will help you keep focused on the person and communicate that you are with them.

Ego: You put your own need to be the focus of attention before the other person.

Solution: Work at respecting and valuing the other person. Learn to love your neighbor as yourself.