Listening requires empathy from "summary" of The Lost Art of Listening by Michael P. Nichols
To truly listen to another person, we must be able to put ourselves in their shoes, to see the world from their perspective. This requires empathy - the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. When we approach listening with empathy, we are able to connect with the other person on a deeper level, to truly understand where they are coming from and what they are feeling. Empathy allows us to tune into the emotional aspects of communication, to pick up on subtle cues and nuances that give us insight into the other person's state of mind. By listening with empathy, we are able to validate the other person's experience, to acknowledge their feelings and show that we care. This creates a safe and trusting environment for open and honest communication to take place. Empathy also allows us to set aside our own preconceived notions and biases, to suspend judgment and truly listen to what the other person is saying. When we listen with empathy, we are able to resist the urge to jump in with our own opinions or advice, to resist the temptation to steer the conversation in a direction that suits us. Instead, we are able to be fully present in the moment, to focus on the other person and their needs. In order to listen with empathy, we must also be willing to be vulnerable, to open ourselves up to the emotions of the other person and to be affected by their experiences. This requires a certain level of courage and humility, a willingness to step outside of our own comfort zone and truly connect with another human being. By listening with empathy, we are able to build stronger, more meaningful relationships with those around us, to create bonds of trust and understanding that can withstand the test of time.
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