- Set a listening goal for yourself--it's always simpler to listen for certain reasons & kinds of information
- Return to your senses--take stock of not only the sounds you hear around you, but the colors, shapes, textures, and scents you perceive. Good observers tend to make better listeners.
- Yet you want to avoid focusing too much on a person's delivery--monotone, gait, accent or what they are wearing
- Avoid thinking ahead when someone is speaking to you and anticipating what you will say in response.
- Even if you disagree with the person, work to suspend your judgment until you have fully understood their message.
- Be an active listener: don't be afraid to ask questions when you're not sure you understand a message.
- Above all, always check your perceptions by considering whether your interpretation of a person's message is accurate and really represents their position.
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