"To effectively communicate, we must realize that we are all different in the way we perceive the world and use this understanding as a guide to our communication with others" - Tony Robins
Challenge #1: Active Listening
Active listening means making a conscious effort to not just hear the words of another person but to try to understand the complete message being sent. Oftentimes in a conversation, we find ourselves distracted or already thinking about our own response, rather than fully listening. Active listening is a technique in which one paraphrases what the other person has said to make sure that they fully understand. Use active listening to become a better communicator, have better relationships, reduce misunderstandings, and false assumptions.
To practice active listening, participate in a conversation by doing the following:
- Make them the center of your attention: put away your screens and use your body language to show them you are interested in what they have to say.
- Paraphrasing what the person has said in questions form (I think you are saying . . . is that right? Let me see if I’m understanding you, do you mean . . . ?)
- Clarify: ask questions until you fully understand the other person’s point of view and feelings. (That sound like it was very frustrating for you, I am right?)
Challenge #2: Active & Constructive Responding
Practice Active & Constructive Responding when someone tells you their good news. Make good eye contact, show that you are interested in what they have to say, put away distractions. Ask questions to find out more about the positive aspects of the event. Encourage them to relive the experience by going into more details about what happened and how it made them feel. Let the know, if true, how hearing their good news makes you feel happy for them.