Seeking to understand, not just to be understood requires whole body listening.
It’s a principle that can be difficult to follow, but it’s so worth it when you do.
Listening, true listening, is a whole-body exercise.
The words people use and the tone they use are only part of what they are communicating.
To truly understand what someone is saying, or how they feel, it can help to consider: What is their perspective? Where are they coming from? What is it they are really asking? What is it they are really looking for?
When we seek to help others, it’s best to consider if we are helping others in the way they wish to be helped, or if what we are doing is really for our own benefit.
Are we actually solving a problem for them, or do we just want to feel like we are?
Whole body listening is a key component in a life committed to service.
Knowing what others are really looking for, or need help with, can help you to better serve them, in a meaningful way.
It isn’t easy doing whole body listening; it’s a skill that needs constant practice, patience, and perspective. But, it’s a skill worth developing.
Communication is all about connection. And the better you listen, the better you can connect with others.