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Listening and hearing are not the same
When was the last time you engaged in deep self-reflection, truly listening to your inner thoughts and feelings, and hearing what these thoughts and feelings were trying to tell you?
When was the last time you had a good conversation with someone?
Not just some ordinary conversation, but a conversation where you internalized what was being said and acted on it.
A conversation where you were able to listen without prejudice or judgment, and not just waiting to jump in and say your part?
What was the topic? Why do you remember this occasion?
Listening is the act of paying attention to what is being said, while hearing goes a step further, involving understanding and internalizing the message. You can listen and not hear anything, but when you truly hear, you comprehend and respond to the message.
Listening and hearing are crucial parts of meaningful conversations.
We succeed or fail in life and at work, one conversation at a time.
Conversations we avoid, we let get out of control, or can’t have without constant interruptions.
