THE HUNGER TO BE UNDERSTOOD

Communication is the most important skill in life. You spend years learning how to read and write, and years learning how to speak. But what about listening? What training have you had that enables you to listen so you really, deeply understand another human being? Probably none, right? Few needs of the human heart are greater than the need to be understood to have a voice that is heard, respected, and valued to have influence. Most believe that the key to influence is communication, getting your point across clearly and speaking persuasively. In fact, if you think about it, don’t you find that, while others are speaking to you, instead of really listening to understand, you are often busy preparing your response? But most people are too vulnerable emotionally to listen deeply, to suspend their agenda long enough to focus on understanding before they communicate their own ideas. Our culture cries out for, even demands, understanding and influence. "If I were to summarize in one sentence the single most important principle I have learned in the field of interpersonal relations, it would be this: Seek first to understand, then to be understood." DR. STEPHEN R. COVEY, it's highly important to get rid of the hunger to be understood and focus more on understanding first (developing great listening skills). Do you want to be a better leader, salesperson, parent, spouse or friend? Be a better listener. Let’s avoid the habit of collective monologue by really listening — with the intent of understanding, appreciating, and affirming. The ability to hear is a gift. The willingness to listen is a choice. BY: SIDIQAH UTHMAN @syd_uthman