Listening attentively is not always as easy as it sounds. Surrounding distractions, thoughts of past events and projecting one’s mind to a future engagement can prevent a listener from fully focusing on the discussion taking place right now. Consciously listening to the speaker will result in the listener hearing the speaker’s message, not just their words. Preparing oneself to listen and focus on what someone is trying to convey is all part of being present in the moment – Mindfulness.
This Active Listening Guide authored by Tony Consolino provides techniques which anyone can follow to help improve their attentiveness when conversing with others. By applying these techniques, the speaker will be confident the listener is giving them the respect to be heard.