Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.
– Stephen Covey
How many times have you shared a story with someone, only to have them interrupt with their own story?
How many times have you been the interrupter?
Listening to understand requires great intention and focus.
But if you’ve experienced someone truly listening to you lately – listening to understand, not to reply – you know how worthwhile this skill is to develop.
This week, listen on purpose.
Give someone the gift of your full attention.
Simple actions to support this effort:
* Make eye contact.
* Ask follow-up questions.
* Close the laptop.
* Hide the phone.
* Say, ‘Tell me more.’
As a coach, purposeful listening is a critical job requirement. And I cannot tell you the number of times a new client has said,
“I don’t remember the last time I felt so heard.”
Give this rare and powerful gift to someone this week!
Christi Hegstad, PhD, PCC is the Certified Executive + Personal Coach for Achievers, here to help you bring your purpose to work, leadership, and life! Reach out today to learn more.