“A good listener is not only popular everywhere, but after a while, he knows something.”
– Wilson Mizner
Do you dominate the conversation or let other people talk, too?
Many people like to talk about themselves, about what they have done and not done, about their health, ideas, etc. They hardly let other people open their mouths.
Many people enjoy speaking about themselves, but if they continuously talk about their achievements or problems, people will get fed up with their egocentricity and avoid them.
Conversation is a two-way activity. A person who dominates the conversation might feel good about it because they attract all the attention, but they might be avoided the next time.
Why Is It Important to Be a Good Listener
The advantages of being a good listener are:
- You will be more appreciated by the people you talk to.
- You will get new points of view and new insights.
- By listening, you gain new perspectives and useful information. You might get some good advice.
- Your relationships with people will be more harmonious.
- People would love your company.
- listening to others develops patience and tolerance in the listener.
- Listening to others can help you solve problems and see new opportunities.
- People will like you more because people like good listeners.
- Being a good listener will help you understand people and their needs, and this will enhance your popularity.
Next time you converse with someone, try to listen more attentively. Allow them to speak their minds without interruption.
You might accept or not accept other people’s ideas and points of view, but pay attention to their words. This is more than politeness; it is an act of tolerance, friendship, and wisdom.
You might not like to listen to their criticism, and you might not care about their experiences. However, you might learn something.
Being patient, tolerant, and a good listener will win you more friends, improve your relationships, and get you more valuable ideas and practical tips that can help you in many ways.
Listening Is an Essential Part of a Good Conversation
Being a good listener offers much more than being a big talker. You learn about other people and understand what makes them tick.
Listening is an essential part of a good conversation.
When you listen with full attention, you communicate respect and interest to the other person. Being respectful will earn you the respect of others.
“To listen well is as powerful a means of influence as to talk well and is as essential to all true conversation.”
– Chinese Proverb
“Most of the successful people I’ve known are the ones who do more listening than talking.”
– Bernard M. Baruch
“An appreciative listener is always stimulating.”
– Agatha Christie
“Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.”
– Stephen R. Covey
