When you think of listening, what comes to mind? Maybe you see yourself pausing with your mouth shut while someone rambles on. You want to speak, but you try very hard to be polite. Maybe sometime in the near future, this person will shut up. Then you can speak your piece. After all, that is what is really important.
Does it matter what the person talks about? Perhaps they are giving a speech on knife sets. It could be about important political events. Deep down inside, you may care little about it. You are busy waiting to speak your mind.
This scenario may be a bit extreme. However, you are probably guilty of it, occasionally. This is very destructive behavior. It can cause many different types of problems. Here are some ideas to consider.
Learning
It is very difficult to learn anything while talking. When you speak, you are bringing up previous knowledge. You already know it. There is nothing new to learn. For some reason, the ears close when the mouth opens. This is not a good way to get any kind of education.
Learning opportunities
It is best to try an clear the mind, when listening. Forget about your needs for just a few moments. This can allow you to utilize your maximum learning potential. It may be similar to being in the kitchen. Suppose you have to prepare a large salad for many people. Are you going to use dull and cheap knives. If you use something like a Henckels knife set, it will work much better. Utilize the best tools that you can, in any situation.
If you listen with a closed mind and open mouth, you use cheap tools. If you clear the mind and make an attempt to learn, you use good tools. Good tools are more effective and are also easier to use. It will not be hard to actually listen, once you form the habit.
Making impressions
Nothing impresses more than a captive audience. When someone listens intently to you, it is very flattering. Are you interested in impressing the opposite sex? Listen to everything that they have to say.
Conclusion
When you properly listen, you can learn many things. You may have to change your habits, to do so. You are not waiting for your turn to speak. Clear your thoughts and take in what is being said. This gives you good listening tools. Good tools are the difference between cheap cutlery and a finely made knife block set. The better the tools, the better you can listen. Are you interested in impressing the opposite sex. Become a captive audience.