I’m really working hard on speaking less and listening more. This does not come easily for me, since I made my living my entire life by running my mouth. I’ve always felt I needed to be an active participant in conversations by talking a lot. In fact, sometimes I was so focused on what I wanted to say, I realized I wasn’t really listening to what anybody else was saying. Later my wife Sharon, who is a very good listener, would refer to something somebody else said, and I would not even recall it.
There’s no telling what I’ve missed. Gradually, I am learning that, just because a thought pops into my head, doesn’t mean I have to verbalize it. It’s more important to actually hear and absorb what others are thinking.
Sometimes talking is okay, but usually listening is better.
True, thanks for sharing.
Boy can I relate. The struggle is real. Thank you for reminding me.
Exactly
Oh Ken, you have touched on one of my major problems. I try to go into a conversation deliberately reminding myself to listen and that my contribution is not necessary all the time. My problem is I like participating and engaging and sharing, but the next day I realize that I flat out talked about myself too much. Jennifer constantly reminded me of this flaw and without a referee, I struggle. Your notes will make me try even harder.
You and me both Bill.