Active listening involves striving to understand the speaker’s perspective. It means acknowledging that we are engaged and have comprehended their message. This differs from simply hearing, which is a physical process where sound waves reach the eardrum and are transmitted to the brain. Active listening is characterized by an attitude focused on achieving shared understanding.

Tips for Improving Your Listening Skills

 Commit to Listening: Decide to focus fully on the speaker. Eliminate distractions and give them your complete attention.

• Avoid Interrupting: Make it a habit to let others finish their thoughts. Respect their need to express themselves before you ask questions or make comments.
• Maintain Eye Contact: Keep your gaze on the speaker and stay attuned to their voice. Avoid letting your eyes wander, as this can lead to a loss of focus.
• Ask Questions: Throughout the conversation, pose a few questions. This shows that you are engaged and interested in what they are saying. Summarizing or paraphrasing their points will further demonstrate your understanding.