Developing selfawareness is essential for better listening from "summary" of The Lost Art of Listening, Third Edition by Michael P. Nichols,Martha B. Straus
To become a better listener, it is crucial to first develop self-awareness. When we are not aware of our own thoughts, feelings, and biases, our ability to truly listen to others is compromised. Self-awareness allows us to recognize when our own emotions or judgments may be interfering with our ability to listen effectively. For example, if we are feeling defensive or angry, we may be more likely to misinterpret or dismiss what the other person is saying. By developing self-awareness, we are better able to regulate our own emotions and reactions in order to be more present and attentive when listening to others. This means being able to set aside our own concerns and focus fully on what the speaker is saying. When we are more aware of our own emotional triggers and biases, we can avoid jumping to conclusions or making assumptions about the speaker's intentions. Self-awareness also allows us to recognize our own listening habits and tendencies. For example, if we tend to interrupt or finish other people's sentences, this may be a sign that we are not fully engaged in the listening process. By being aware of these habits, we can work to change them and become more conscious and active listeners. Furthermore, self-awareness helps us to understand how our own past experiences and beliefs shape the way we listen to others. By reflecting on our own communication style and patterns, we can identify areas where we may need to improve in order to be more open and empathetic listeners. This awareness allows us to approach conversations with an open mind and a willingness to learn from others.- Developing self-awareness is a fundamental step towards becoming a better listener. By understanding our own thoughts, emotions, biases, and listening habits, we can improve our ability to connect with others, show empathy, and create meaningful and respectful interactions.
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