Listen More Than You Speak

All of us have heard the quote "you have 2 ears and one mouth so you can listen twice as much as you speak."  This quote might have flown over your head but really try to take it in. personally I heard it in an interpersonal communications business class at my college and at first I was like "this again, for real?" but after time went by in that class I realized why it was so important.

People love to talk, especially about themselves. weather we want to admit it or not its the truth, being able to actively listen is a super power. When you take your time and energy to really understand someone else's view point. They appreciate that so much, they feel as though you respect them and the things they value. Even if your opinions differ if you give them the time of day they're so much more likely to give that time of day to you.

I'm not saying to never talk about yourself, thats not healthy. Celebrate wins and talk about achievements (as long as you're humble about it), but remember to listen more than you speak, observe and let things happen as they do. you'll probably learn a thing or two

these are some observations I've noticed in my practice of listening more than I speak

Gaining knowledge and understanding

When you listen attentively to others, you have the opportunity to learn from their experiences, perspectives, and knowledge. By absorbing information and understanding different viewpoints, you can broaden your own understanding of the world and make more informed decisions.

Building relationships

Listening is crucial for building strong and meaningful relationships. When you actively listen to others, it shows that you value their opinions, thoughts, and feelings. This helps to create a sense of trust and respect, deepening your connections with others.

Effective communication

Effective communication involves both speaking and listening. By listening more, you can better understand the context and nuances of a conversation. This allows you to respond appropriately and contribute more effectively to the discussion. Active listening also helps to avoid misunderstandings and misinterpretations.

Empathy and understanding

Listening allows you to empathize with others and understand their perspectives and emotions. By paying attention to their words, tone, and body language, you can better understand their needs, concerns, and emotions. This enables you to respond with empathy and support, strengthening your relationships and fostering a positive environment.

Personal growth and self-awareness

Listening more than you speak provides an opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth. By listening to others, you may gain insights about yourself, challenge your own beliefs and assumptions, and develop a more open-minded approach. It also helps you become more aware of your communication style and areas for improvement.

Resolving conflicts

In conflicts or disagreements, listening plays a vital role in finding resolutions. By actively listening to the other party, you can understand their point of view and identify common ground. This promotes constructive dialogue, problem-solving, and reaching mutually beneficial solutions.