So there you are actively involved in a conversation, meeting or presentation.

Are you:

A. Hearing (A physiological response)
B. Listening (A psychological response)

If the answer is A, time to shift to B.

If the answer is B then is it:

1. Positive listening
2. Negative listening

Here are few examples of both:

1. Positive listening:

i. With the intent to comprehend

ii. With the intent to act

iii. With the intent to gain knowledge

iv. With the intent to get pleasure from

v. With the intent to retain information

2. Negative listening:

i. With the intent to interject

ii. With the intent to refute

iii. With the intent to outdo

iv. With the intent to divert the spotlight back on you

v. With the intent to take control

vi. With the intent to tell your side of the story

So next time you are involved in a conversation, meeting or discussion check yourself on where you are at and why with your hearing/listening.

Work hard at the quality of your communication through an increased desire and ability to listen and in the process ensure that…

The Journey Continues!