I believe that communication is the most important skill in life. If one can master this skill, they have the power to awaken influence in more hearts and lives than they ever thought possible. Most people think of speaking when the topic of communication is discussed. Although there is much power in the spoken word, it is only 10% of communication. Communication comes in different types; reading, writing, listening, speaking, body language, and sounds.
Empathetic listening is listening with your ears, eyes and heart. Empathetic listeners are hard to come by. Most people are so tied up in their own affairs, they find it difficult to take the time to truly listen with the intent to understand. Philippians 2:3-4 gives us great instruction. Don’t be selfish; don’t live to make a good impression on others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourself. Don’t think only about your own affairs, but be interested in others, too, and what they are doing.
Words are not always necessary when it comes to empathetic listening. Sometimes they just get in the way. We don’t always have to agree or disagree. Proverbs18:2 states, Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions. Maybe that is why God gave us only one mouth and two eyes and ears.
The need to be heard and understood is very evident in our society. Americans are reporting more loneliness now than ever before. However, being in a crowd of people does not necessarily make you feel less lonely.
As you listen with empathy, you will receive dramatic results in your communication. When you invest time to listen to others, your happiness and general satisfaction will soar! Who knows what you will learn about yourself and others with a pause, a breath, and a listening ear.
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