Listening well is the secret to having a really great conversation and effectively working through issues that arise.

Here are 3 quick tips.

1. Give your partner your undivided, quality attention. Maintain eye contact. Lean in. Keep your body and ears uncrossed and open.
2. Stop yourself from interrupting.   Really listen vs. preparing your defense or response, no matter how helpful you think it might be.
3. 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.”