As the weather gets warmer and we shed our winter layers, I’m looking forward to more opportunities to gather with family and friends (new and old). Communication fuels connection and community, and it’s helpful to keep in mind that communication isn’t just about talking; it’s about listening.

3 Types of Listening

When we listen, we understand others’ perspectives, feelings, and needs. Active listening is the art of truly hearing what’s being shared. It allows us to engage thoughtfully and build stronger connections. So, let’s consider 3 types of listening:

• The first level is subjective. Everyday listening is usually subjective and usually occurs when whatever is said is heard through the experiences of the listener.

• The second level is objective listening. In this case, the listener is completely focused on the other person, but it may not really get at the heart of the matter.

• The third level is intuitive listening, and it means listening with all the senses. Not only hearing what they’re saying, but also hearing how they saying it, and even what ISN’T being said. This is the most powerful form of listening and allows you to really connect with the other person.

How might we be more intentional about actively listening?

Acknowledging & Validating

When we engage in two-way dialogue, an important way to help someone feel heard and to let them know we’re listening without judgment is by acknowledging and validating. We can acknowledge and validate even if (especially if) we may not agree with what someone is saying, an increasingly important skill!

Acknowledging is a deep level of mirroring back or paraphrasing to let them know we really listened and care about what they are saying.

Validating is letting the other person know they have the right to feel the way they do.

By validating feelings and emotions (not necessarily right or wrong/agree or disagree), we’re letting them know we can see things from their perspective.

How can we help someone feel truly seen and heard?

We are all wired to connect! As we look forward to cultivating connection and community, I invite you to consider these elements of listening. How can we be more authentic and intentional in our communications?

Let’s bring good ENERGY to the world. Thanks for reading!