Subtitle?
We talk over people and talk for them. We cast quick judgments. We have short attention spans. We are generally not curious about others. We want to talk about ourselves.
eing able to put yourself in someone else’s shoes is an incredibly important part of listening
The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out. (Prov. 18:15)
We must take the time to listen so we can discern needs and bridge those gaps.
But don't focus so much on insignificant details that you miss the big picture
L – Love
Jesus listened without prejudice.
I – Inquire
Jesus often asked people questions.
S – Stop
Jesus didn’t let busyness keep Him from listening.
T – Test
Jesus patiently drew out what was inside people.
E – Engage
Jesus stayed in the moment as He ministered to people
Active listening techniques include:
Being fully present in the conversation
Showing interest by practicing good eye contact
Noticing (and using) non-verbal cues
Asking open-ended questions to encourage further responses
Paraphrasing and reflecting back what has been said
Listening to understand rather than to respond
Withholding judgment and advice
Remaining neutral and non-judgmental in your responses enables the other person to feel comfortable with sharing their thoughts. It makes the conversation to a safe zone where they can trust that they won't be shamed, criticized, blamed, or otherwise negatively received.
Don’t tell the person what tehy shoudl do unless they ask you for that.
"Active listening requires de-centering from one’s fixed position to be fully present with another. It helps people feel more understood and strengthens relationships as it signals a willingness to sit with the other’s perspective and empathy for their situation instead of singular focus on oneself."
Patience is an important active listening technique because it allows the other person to speak without interruption. It also gives them the time to say what they are thinking without having to try to finish their sentences for them.