Are We Listening

Are we Listening?

How many times do you talk to someone and they are on their phone or doing something else, and they don't even hear what you said? Or you find yourself doing that with someone else when they are talking to you. Have you ever listened to someone tell you a story, and instead of listening, you are waiting to tell your own story? Here are some tips to have a better conversation and connect with those around you.

1. Focus on those around you- Put away your phone. Look at the person who is talking to you and really listen to what they are saying.

2. Listen to what people are actually saying instead of what you think they are going to say- The other day, I asked Alexa, "When is the next year that August 31st, will be on a Saturday?" Alexa said: "Thursday." If I had asked what day of the week will August 31st be on next year, she would have been spot on. If you're judging or trying to figure out what someone is going to say, try to stop. I do this with my kids all the time.

3. Don't try to one-up someone else- Have you ever had it happen that someone starts talking, and you think of something similar that happened to you? Have you seen Penelope on SNL? Yeah, sometimes I sound like that too. If you're not familiar, check out this one.

4. Ask follow-up questions- Instead of jumping in with your own story, ask follow-up questions. Try one of the four for a week and see if your conversations improve. I'd love to hear how it goes.

5. Don't interrupt- Sometimes, we're so excited to share something we don't give the other person a chance to finish before we cut in. Next time this temptation hits you, pause. If you wait for them, they are more likely to listen to what you have to say.