Just Listen
I saw a quote posted the other day that said, "the
biggest communication problem we have is that we do not listen to understand,
we listen to reply." I had to read
the post a few times before the meaning of the statement finally sunk in—point
taken. The more I thought about, I feel
there is a lot of truth in this observation as to how we communicate with
others. Whether it is consciously or
subconsciously, we typically take in information so that we can formulate an
answer or response. There is a feeling
of inadequacy associated with not having a response, which probably has
something to do with our own insecurities.
But by providing an immediate response does that reduce our ability to
really contemplate an issue and understand what is being said?
This common approach can be related to arguments or
disagreements we me have one with another.
When we are in a heated debate are we listening the other side’s point
of view, or are we simply gathering additional information to be used in our
rebuttal? If the point of the argument is
to validate your standpoint and outline the flaws in your counterpart’s
perspective, you may be better served in trying to understand their
perspective. This may not change your
opinion on the matter, but it will improve your understanding.
$100.00 Challenge
Project Update:
I have been able to make a deal with one of my neighbors,
who is a cabinetmaker. I am going to go
to his shop every Saturday morning and sweep up for a couple of hours. In return, he will allow me to take all of
the scrap pieces of wood for my project.
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