A message from Sandy.  ”God gave us two eyes, to ears and only one mouth. And we should use them in that ratio.”—Unknown

 Are you a good listener?

                                  We listen to obtain information.

                                  We listen to understand.

                                  We listen for enjoyment.

                                  We listen to learn.

Listening is rarely, if ever taught in schools because educators along with almost everyone else assume that listening is automatic, like breathing. But effective listening is a skill, which like any other skill is achieved through learning and practice. Listening takes time, or more accurately, you need to take the time to listen. Listening requires a temporary suspension of all unrelated thoughts, this means learning to manage what goes on in your own mind.

Patience, compassion, and empathy are also important traits, and don’t forget to be curious! (this could be the most vital piece to the listening puzzle). We all know the golden rule, “Care for others the way you would like them to care for you.” So make a conscious effort to hear not only the words that another person is saying, but more importantly, try to understand the total message being sent. Listening helps build relationships, solve problems, ensure understanding, resolve conflicts and improve accuracy.

“We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.”—Unknown

Do you make yourself accessible to really hear people? Kindness is powerful and contagious, but as Janis and Terry have taught us,what a gift it is to be truly listened to, this gesture could make all the difference in someones day. We should never underestimate the potential we all have to make a difference by listening.Can you hear me now?