What impact does listening have when communicating-read this months blog to learn more!
What Impact does listening have on communication?
Have you ever thought to yourself, “Umm you never said that to me?!” Or “That’s not what I remember hearing.”
Happens to ALL of us, as our lives are busy, we are often over stimulated with information or we have other thoughts on our mind. Mis-communication is common in our day to day. So what impact does listening have on all of this? For some of you, it might be no impact, where as some others view that as part of communication.
Let’s start by taking a look at how Merrimu Webster defines Communication.
Communication: a process by which information is exchanged between individuals through a common system of symbols, signs, or behavior.
Information is exchanged. So, for information to be exchanged you need 2 roles, someone communicating, and someone receiving the information.
Listening is a crucial part of communication, whether you are listening to help the other person feel heard and understood or listening for content and clarity, listening is a part of the process!
According to study.com they showcase 5 different ways you can listen to someone. Pseudo listening, Appreciative listening, Empathetic listening, Comprehensive listening and Critical listening.
These are a lot of different listening styles, who knew listening was such a skillful asset, am I right? But listening is a skill, and one that often takes mindfulness to do.
In a busy, fast paced world where everyone is trying to make their voice heard, it’s sometimes hard to slow down and listen to another’s perspective. Especially if we question their perspective or disagree with their viewpoint. But even if it’s a topic that one enjoys, fighting the urge to interrupt and share your thoughts on a subject can be challenging at times to do! We all want to be heard. We all want to be understood.
Which is why listening is such a pivotal part of the communication process.
Communication Challenge: Over the next 24 hours, when in conversations, slow down to recognize the listening or lack thereof. Just to be mindful of the skill listening truly is.
If it helps, remember WAIT, which stands for, Why Am I Talking?
Want more?
Make sure to check out our membership or one of our online classes! Introduction to Motivational Interviewing is a great place to start by learning the basics!
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