Listening carefully
In conversation, one should attend closely to what is being said
Marcus Aurelius
Meditations 7.4
The time that comes to mind when I think about being heard is when Shannon and I were out to eat several months ago. It was after we left the hospital shortly after I received my diagnosis and we were discussing our different perspectives. Neither of us picked up our phones or “checked out.”
Shannon's listening brought value to our conversation. I felt heard and valued by her, and she took my feelings and what I had to say seriously.
I have found that I have the habit of waiting to speak instead of listening. Since I have become aware of it I have been more active in my listening; putting focus into what the other person is saying
Listening to someone paying attention to them during a conversation. I have found myself running down rabbit holes in my mind during conversations, essentially not being present. Having a focus on the other person is key; listening to the words, comprehending them, and paying attention to body language.
What about you? Do you listen during a conversation? Or do you wait for your turn to speak?
Let me know your thoughts in the comments.