“Are you listening to me?” “Did you hear me?”

Have you ever heard these words? Perhaps from your mom, dad, or even your spouse? Did you know there is a difference between listening and hearing?

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary (https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/listen) defines listening as paying attention to sound; to hear something with thoughtful attention and consideration.

Even within this definition, there are two types of listening. The first part indicates that listening involves paying attention to sound, meaning you may hear someone talking without necessarily paying attention to the content of their words. This is known as passive listening.

Active listening, on the other hand, involves giving thoughtful consideration to what you are listening to. It requires attention for understanding and often involves engaging in a dialogue where you ask questions to clarify and deepen your understanding.

Implementing active listening can be accomplished through these three key methods:

1. Give Your Full Attention: Ensure you are not distracted by your surroundings. Maintaining eye contact shows your interest in what the speaker is saying. Whenever possible, clear your mind of distractions before beginning the conversation.
2. Consider and Seek Clarification: As the conversation progresses, ask questions to enhance your understanding of what the speaker is sharing. Begin by paraphrasing what you hear and adjust your understanding as needed throughout the discussion.
3. Empathize with the Speaker: Show that you understand and acknowledge their perspective. You can empathize with their situation even if you do not agree with them.

In our fast-paced, instant gratification world, we often listen with our ears on fast forward. This hurried approach can lead to a loss of genuine connection and diminish the closeness in both personal and professional relationships. By applying these listening tips, you can cultivate deeper connections and strengthen your relationships with others.