Ever feel like you're in a conversation but not really hearing what the other person is saying? Active listening is the skill that changes that. It's more than just waiting for your turn to speak—it's about fully understanding and connecting with the speaker. Here’s how to get started: 1. Put away distractions. Silence your phone and close unnecessary tabs. Give the person your full attention. 2. Show you're engaged. Use verbal cues like 'I see' or 'uh-huh' and maintain eye contact. 3. Reflect back what you heard. Summarize their point in your own words, like 'So, if I'm understanding you correctly, you're concerned about...'. 4. Ask clarifying questions. Instead of just saying 'ok', try 'Can you tell me more about that?' or 'How did that make you feel?'. 5. Avoid interrupting. Let them finish their thoughts completely. Practice this daily—in meetings, with family, or even with your coffee order. The goal is to make the other person feel heard and valued. Try this exercise: The next time you're in a conversation, focus solely on understanding one person. Don't plan your response. Just listen. What did you notice about how it felt? What was the outcome? Share your experience and let's learn together.
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