As a child I received a great deal of good advice. Sadly, at the time I listened, but did not always hear. Listening and hearing are two very different actions. When one listens the words enter the brain. When one hears, information heard is actually registered and filed.

Many relationships are diminished due to one or both parties listening, but not hearing each other. Often when people feel settled in a relationship, they presume they know; what the other person will say, think or feel concerning an issue or situation.

The problem with this logic is that a relationship consists of people. Most people evolve and change over time. Views held yesterday, may be changed today by experiences or events.

Active listening (hearing) is a skill. The best and most effective way to achieve  it is via paraphrasing. In paraphrasing one listens to another and then states, “I heard you say ………Is that right?” People who have mastered this communication skill generally have very fulfilling relationships.

People in healthy/ happy relationships understand that changes over time in; ideas, thoughts and perceptions are normal. Communication is one forum for transfer of information from one mind to another. If we listen to those around us and hear what they have to say, many of our relationships would dramatically improve.

Blessings,