Listening Skills: Why They Matter More Now Than Ever Before

In a world where we are constantly bombarded with information, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and distracted. At times, it can feel like communication is more about talking than it is about listening. However, the art of communication is not just about speaking, it also requires active listening – a skill that doesn’t always come naturally to us. In the age of pandemic-induced stress and heightened anxieties, learning to be a good listener has become more important than ever.

Effective communication is the backbone of any relationship, be it personal or professional. It requires effort and dedication to understand and validate another’s perspective to build mutual trust and respect. This means that being a good listener is paramount to success in any relation or interaction. If you feel like you need a little help in brushing up your communication skills, here are some key pointers to help you become a better listener.

1. Validate Feelings

We’ve all been in situations where we’ve been dismissed by someone we care about during a time of emotional distress. It’s never a pleasant feeling. Therefore, it is imperative that we validate other people’s feelings during conversations, even if we don’t necessarily agree with them. When we validate someone else’s feelings, we acknowledge the legitimacy of their emotions, and in doing so, create a safe space for open communication.

For example, when a child is experiencing stress due to virtual learning, it is crucial to listen to their feelings and empathize with them. In such cases, telling them to ‘suck it up’ and be fine with it does little to change their situation but dismisses their valid emotions. Instead, acknowledging their stress and validating their feelings can help to build trust and security in the relationship.

2. Be Present

In an era of digital distractions, it is important to eliminate or minimize any distractions during conversations. When one is free of distractions, they can pay better attention, they can focus on the discussion at hand, and can be more reflective in their responses. Using neutral ground, such as walking or driving together, can help to create a safer space for open and honest communication.

In other situations, such as difficult conversations, it can be helpful to reduce stress by choosing a comfortable environment or a space where one feels at ease. When we can remove judgement from the interaction, it makes it easier to be vulnerable and exposed, leading to richer and more meaningful conversations that strengthen the relationship.

3. Respond

In any challenging situation, it is necessary to not react but respond to the situation. Taking a moment to consider the other person’s perspective, even if we don’t agree with it, can create a sense of validation for them. Sometimes, it might require us to put ourselves in their shoes to understand the larger picture. The way we choose to respond can dictate the outcome of the interaction.

For instance, responding to an email rather than reacting impulsively can help find a solution to a problem rather than exacerbating it. By planning the response beforehand and keeping the end goal in mind, one can create an interactive dialogue that takes into account the other person’s perspective, leading to a more positive outcome.

Final Thoughts

The importance of being a good listener cannot be overstated, particularly in the light of the present circumstances. Communication requires intention and effort to ensure that each party feels heard and understood. Active listening requires validating feelings, being present, and responding thoughtfully to the situation. By practicing these skills, we can build stronger, more meaningful connections with the people we care about. Remember – communication is a two-way street, and being a good listener is just as important as being a good speaker.