Listening well is the secret to having a really great conversation and effectively working through issues that arise.
Here are 3 quick tips.
- Give your partner your undivided, quality attention. Maintain eye contact. Lean in. Keep your body and ears uncrossed and open.
- Stop yourself from interrupting. Really listen vs. preparing your defense or response, no matter how helpful you think it might be.
- Encourage your partner to share by saying, “Tell me more. I am interested in what you are saying. ” “I want to understand what has upset you.”
“I want to know what you are really hoping for.”