Do you listen to react or understand? | Stephen Covey quotes | Find him on Amazon.
Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.
Stephen Covey
Do you listen to react or understand?
How much attention do you pay when your friend shares their grief with you? Are you listening to understand the situation and their feelings truly, or do you listen so that you can respond with solutions on what to do and what not to do?
During a discussion about a controversial topic, someone expresses an opinion that contradicts your own. Do you immediately dismiss or challenge their viewpoint in your head instead of listening fully?
In a team meeting, a colleague is presenting a new proposal. Instead of engaging with the proposal and asking questions, do you listen passively and simply wait for your turn to share your proposal?
Not everything is about you every time!
It’s time to start active listening – stop prioritizing your own thoughts and opinions in every situation.
- Listen like you really want to – no judgments.
- Maintain eye contact so your thoughts won’t wander.
- Ask questions to keep up the curiosity in the conversation.
- Take a minute to process the information instead of impulse replies.
