I recently realized that I’m not as good at listening as I previously believed. I was involved in two heated debates over the weekend. Upon reflection, both could have been avoided if I had listened more effectively. I’ve also been interrupting people which is almost never a good idea.
Some lessons to which I’ve been reminded:
– Listening closely is not the same as listening effectively. In many cases, empathy is better than attention to detail.
– Curiosity is almost always more welcome than judgement.
– If I can’t keep my thought long enough to avoid interrupting, it’s probably not worth keeping.
Though I normally start new challenges at the beginning of the month, now is a great time to change things up. For the rest of the month, I will focus on listening more effectively. If you catch me doing one of my bad habits, please let me know. Sometimes, it takes a village.
What’s a skill you have that you’ve realized is not as good as you had believed?
Sticking with a job until it is done.
I could be wearing too many hats, and I am constantly distracted by things that need to be done. Spring cleaning is a huge task.
Yardwork needs to be done. The Sun came out!
Focus.
Finish one thing before I start another.
Take time to care for myself.
Help!!!