Hearing or Listening?
A few weeks ago our staff devotion was on the topic of the importance of listening, and it got me wondering why something so simple can be tough to some if not all of us.
Have you ever heard someone say: “You might be hearing me, but you’re not listening to me”? If you’re familiar with that expression, there’s a good chance you know a thing or two about the difference between hearing and listening.
While hearing and listening may seem like they serve the same purpose, the difference between the two is fairly significant. The definition of hearing has more to do with the physiological act of hearing sounds than it does with making sense and connecting with the person who’s talking to you.
Listening, on the other hand, means “to pay attention to sound, to hear something with thoughtful attention; and to give consideration.” Hearing is like collecting data. The act of hearing is relatively simple and basic. Listening, on the other hand, is three-dimensional. People can follow instructions, be there for their friends, and generally be a sound support system.
By asking questions such as
What happened?
How did you feel when this happened?
What is the most challenging part of all this?
These questions can help a person feel heard and appreciated, especially during a crisis.
We know for sure that you continue to do the best for yourselves and everyone around you!
LOVE & LIGHT
Joan, Counselor & Trainer