Take a moment to reflect on the last time you really listened. By listening I mean barely spoke in the conversation, absorbed what was being said and even felt what the other person was communicating to you. We move fast right? Most conversations are like fast food. Pull up to the window, hand me the answer that I ordered and let me move on. When I was studying coaching, we had an entire class on listening. Just listening.
We learned about active listening – nodding in agreement and saying words like ‘mmhmm…’ We learned about compassionate listening – really feeling what the other person is expressing in their story. It’s fascinating to listen to the undertones in the conversation. You can really tell when someone has an ‘ah-ha’ moment, or is completely in agreement just by the way their body and tone react as they speak. By tapping into intuition, you can even tell when someone is saying something they don’t mean. Sometimes we say things, but truly feel another way. If you’re listening closely, you can feel when someone shifts into this role.
Richard Moss said, “The greatest gift you can give another…is the purity of your attention.”
Life is richer - and even in bold colors - when you truly listen to what someone is saying to you. Tune out the world and gift someone with your attention this week. Your return will be three-fold as you tap into the excitement, emotion and depth of the story or question with which they come to you. Tune in!
Life Coach Katie Mattson • www.EnergizeYourMoment.com
