If you do not know how to be a good listener, communication can be difficult. Working on your listening skills can help in building better communication and form stronger bonds with your family. To help you, here are seven ways on how to be a good listener in the family.
Be in the present
The first step on how to be a good listener is by not letting your mind wander to other things. It's essential to stay and be in the present to make your family member feel heard and valued. Avoid distractions when talking to a family member. Keep your phone away and give them your full and undivided attention.
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Focus on what your family member is saying
When talking to someone, you often focus more on what you are going to say next rather than what they're trying to say. This can be an issue and can get more intense when talking to a family member, especially if you're talking about a family problem. You may be eager to share your thoughts because of this. But, you don't think about how you feel or what you wish to respond to. Focus on what they have to say and listen intently.
Show them that you're listening.
You can show them that you're listening by simply nodding, smiling, laughing, or even by just maintaining eye contact. Learning how to be a good listener also means learning how to respond to what the speaker is trying to say without even saying a word. Make the speaker feel valued by showing them that you're listening.
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Make sure that they're done talking.
In knowing how to be a good listener, one must also know when to talk. Make sure that the person you're talking to is done speaking before you talk. You can even pause for a moment after the speaker finishes talking. In this way, you can make sure that they are completely done talking.
Ask questions if you need to
Part of listening is understanding. If there's something that the speaker said that you did not understand, ask them. It will show that you are listening to your family member and that you value the things they say.
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Refrain from offering advice
Unless they ask you, do not give them advice. This approach can make it seem like you're not listening. You're showing that you're only hearing what you want, and offering advice in response. If a family member wants to talk, avoid telling them what to do.
Don't judge.
Even if you're frustrated or angry with someone, try to show empathy when listening. Try to understand where the person is coming from. It's never a good idea to listen with judgment, as this will reduce your ability to communicate effectively. Even if you disagree with them, avoid judgment.
