Karl Menniger said, “Listening is a magnetic and strange thing, a creative force. The friends who listen to us are the ones we move toward. When we are listened to, it creates us, makes us unfold and expand.”

How can we improve our ability to listen?

Remove distractions: Remove the phone, television, computer, or anything else that keeps us from giving our attention to the other person.

Wait for the finish: Learn to wait and make sure someone has completed their thoughts before formulating how to respond.

Listen beyond the words: Body language and tone of voice are critical to understanding the meaning behind the words we hear.