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Active listening involves engaging with both verbal and nonverbal cues from "summary" of The Wisdom of Listening by Mark Brady
Active listening is not just about hearing the words that are spoken; it also involves paying attention to the speaker's body language and other nonverbal cues. These cues can provide valuable insights into the speaker's emotions, attitudes, and intentions. By engaging with both verbal and nonverbal cues, a listener can gain a more comprehensive understanding of what the speaker is trying to communicate. Verbal cues include the actual words that are spoken, as well as the tone, pitch, and speed of speech. These elements can convey a wealth of information about the speaker's mood and feelings. For example, a speaker who is speaking quickly and loudly may be excited or agitated, while a speaker who is speaking slowly and softly may be feeling sad or contemplative. By paying attention to these verbal cues, a listener can better empathize with the speaker and respond in a more appropriate and supportive manner. Nonverbal cues, on the other hand, include gestures, facial expressions, posture, and eye contact. These cues can reveal a lot about a person's emotions and intentions, sometimes more so than their words. For instance, a speaker who is avoiding eye contact and fidgeting may be feeling anxious or uncomfortable, even if they are saying that everything is fine. By observing these nonverbal cues, a listener can pick up on subtle signals that can help them better understand the speaker's underlying thoughts and feelings. By actively engaging with both verbal and nonverbal cues, a listener can demonstrate that they are fully present and attentive to the speaker. This can help build trust and rapport between the two parties, leading to more meaningful and productive communication. Active listening is a skill that requires practice and effort, but the rewards are well worth it in terms of improved relationships and deeper connections with others.
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