Are You Really Listening?
Are you really listening? Or you are just listening to prepare to retort? If you are, you have missed the opportunity to learn something new.
I have many encounters where the other person was not listening to me, but ready counter my points. Do not be that person! The only way for two persons to build relationship is through communication.
Listen to understand. You have to keep quiet and stay curious. Ask why? Ask for facts? Differentiate between facts and opinion.
Here is my favorite follow up question. "Here is what I know. You said XXX because of XXXX. Did I understand it correctly?" This question has a few intended outcomes.
If the argument is illogical or not true. I would sound silly to the listener. This is a subtle way to disagree with the speaker.
If my understanding is incorrect. The speaker would explain further, allowing me to understand more.
If my understanding is correct. The speaker would agree with me.
Remember, understand the other side's argument does not mean you agree to it. By holding two opposing thoughts in your head, it allows you to make better decision.