Hearing & listening are two very different things, though they may look the same. The results of the two can be very different. When we minimize distractions and hone in on the singular goal of active listening we are one step closer to having a better understanding of the person on the other end of the table & connecting with them. For many us us we listen, hear something we like and then wait for the opportunity to respond. That usually isn't a bad thing, we are excited to connect. Though, when we pause & continue listening we allow that other person to truly share what they have inside, allowing it all to come out. That gives us the better opportunity to understand, empathize & connect. When we enhance our active listening skills, putting them into action we elevate our conversations no matter what the setting is. It will prove to be valuable at home, in work scenarios, with friends or even at a store. When we listen, digest, paraphrase for clarity ...
This one hit this weekend. I overheard a conversation and that was the advice that was shared. I have heard the saying before, but it simmered a bit more this time. It was a reminder that if we are not actively seeking to change something we are not satisfied with, then we are inversely choosing it by inaction. I don't think that all the actions need to be large, swift or paramount though. They could be thoughtful, small & impactful as well. It's about taking responsibility, 100% responsibility for who & where we are. Then giving it our very best pursuit. Best can look different day to day, & perfection is not attainable. The two things we control every day is our attitude & our effort. My encouragement for today is to CHOOSE to pursue your potential; the best version of yourself.
Sometimes when we are great and many things in life it's harder for us to begin something new because we rarely start at a high level. Our starts with something new are usually a little rocky at first and that may detour us from beginning because it may be a shot to our pride that we aren't immediately excelling at this new thing. My little bit of encouragement or reminder today is that YOU do have the capability to be GREAT at whatever you put your mind and consistent effort behind. Think back to something that you truly love and are really good at right now...got it? Now think of how it was when you began. There is probably a vast difference. Now think about something that you started but didn't really pursue with intention. For me that's the guitar. I have one and I can play 6-8 chords well, but that is a very small sample of what it takes to master that craft. Because of this I don't play much in front of others. Baseball on the other hand I wold feel just ...
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