Practice your listening and observation skills by the following baby steps suggested by Sean Covey at the end of Habit 5:
- See how long you can keep eye contact with someone while they are talking to you.
- Go to the mall, find a seat, and watch people communicate with each other. Observe what their body language is saying.
- In your interactions today, try mirroring one person and mimicking another, just for fun. Compare the results.
- Ask yourself … Which of the five poor listening styles do I have the biggest problem with – spacing out, pretend listening, selective listening, word listening or self-centered listening (judging, advising, probing)?” Now, try to go one day without doing it.
- Some time this week, ask your mom or dad, “How’s it going?” Open your heart and practice genuine listening. You’ll be surprised by what you learn.
- If you’re a talker, take a break and spend your day listening. Only talk when you must.
- The next time you find yourself wanting to bury your feelings deep inside you, don’t do it. Instead, express them in a responsible way.
Think of a situation where your constructive feedback would really help another person. Share It with them when the time is right.