Listen Up!
The Greek philosopher Diogenes famously commented, “We have two ears and only one tongue in order that we may hear more and speak less.” His appreciation for the importance of actually listening is timeless. Even today, we recognize that listening benefits all individuals involved. But what does it mean to “actually listen”? Active listening goes beyond simply hearing words—it involves listening for the meaning and intention underlying the words. There are seven fundamentals of active listening (Leonardo, 2020).
One benefit of active listening is that it allows genuine connections to form while conversing. By following active listening techniques, a person who is listened to is more likely to feel valued and appreciated. These feelings are essential for the creation of lasting connections. Moreover, active listening encourages positive verbal and nonverbal behaviors. According to research, these behaviors foster a sense of safety between individuals (Zhou & Fredrickson, 2023). When people feel understood, their sense of connection and emotional security improves, which often enhances their well-being.
