October 27th, 2013 JUST FOR TODAY, I will let the other fellow talk. Indeed, I will remain silent while another person speaks. For, is it not the truth that I am, like most people, yoked with the unwholesome habit of impatiently interjecting, so that I can slip in my own words, while another speaks? Today, I will listen patiently to the other person. And, to do this, I must accept the other person totally and unconditionally. Also, I will rid myself of the need to justify my actions and defend myself. I must immediately suppress my ego, and be humble enough to make the effort to learn from the listening experience. Did not my creator furnish me with two ears and one mouth just so that I can listen more than I talk? I will subordinate my knowledge to the other fellows, if only to demonstrate that I wish to know more than I already know. I will refuse to let my mind wander as he speaks, resolutely shutting out all distraction. I will hear him out, and respond only after im certain that I have an accurate picture of his view, for a pause does not mean he has exhausted his speech. I will not dwell on thoughts of what my response will be, or on what brilliant remark I can make to better his argument. Rather, I will motivate him to tell me even more by saying things like: What a great story! and, What a splendid idea! And, I will listen for ideas, not just words, and in the process, I will paint a clear mental picture of what hes saying on the canvas of my imagination. I will concentrate on key facts, and ignore trivia and fluff. I will let him know Im listening by periodically nodding a yes, or whispering an I see, or voicing an Is that so? And since even a bitter enemy will say truths that need to be heard, I will respond to ideas, rather than react to the person. I will read between the lines by listening to hear what isnt said. Finally, I will recapitulate by giving this feedback:Just to make sure that I understand what you expect from me, heres the way I understand it............ ACTION EXERCISE Today, simply imagine that the person talking to you has a sign around his neck that says: Make me feel important! Accord him that importance by remaining totally entranced by all he has to say. That way, you will be arrested by a consuming interest in what he is saying. And it will be all too obvious to him. Dr. Yomi Garnett theglobalinstituteinc
Posted on: Sun, 27 Oct 2013 14:11:06 +0000