Listening

Listening is vital during a discussion. As tempting as it is to interrupt, don’t do it. You’ll communicate much more effectively if you try to understand your partner BEFORE you respond. Let them get it all out before dealing with the problem. Sometimes you gotta let off some steam before you can cool down. Cause feelings aren’t right or wrong, they’re just feelings.
You must be willing to listen. Cause listening is much more than just being quiet or silent. It requires undivided attention. The time to listen is when someone needs to be heard. The time to deal with someone who has a problem, is when they still have a problem. The time to listen is when our attention is vital to the one who seeks it. Listening is part of loving.
Listen to what they’re feeling along with what they’re saying takes an immense amount of concentration and effort.
Show them you want to listen. By putting your phone, iPod/iPad, game controller or tv remote or anything else down.
 Avoid giving your 2 cents when they pause.
 Watch their facial expressions and the tones of their voice.
Don’t lecture them on how they should think or feel.
Rephrase what they said to show them that you’re trying to understand. And that you have an interest in what they are saying.
One phrase I loved was, “Learn to listen, and then listen to learn.”