How often do you feel really listened to? How often do you really listen to others? (Be honest.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We know we\u2019re in the presence of a good listener when we get that sweet, affirming feeling of really being heard. But sadly it occurs all too rarely. We can\u2019t force others to listen, but we can improve our own listening, and perhaps inspire others by doing so.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Good listening means mindful listening. Like mindfulness itself, listening takes a combination of intention and attention. The intention part is having a genuine interest in the other person\u2014their experiences, views, feelings, and needs. The attention part is being able to stay present, open, and unbiased as we receive the other\u2019s words\u2014even when they don\u2019t line up with our own ideas or desires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paradoxically, being good at listening to others requires the ability to listen to yourself. If you can\u2019t recognize your own beliefs and opinions, needs and fears, you won\u2019t have enough inner space to really hear anyone else. So the foundation for mindful listening is self-awareness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here are some tips to be a good listener to yourself so you can be a good listener for others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n