Nick and Trudy, it really is quite simple but we don't take the time.  Thanks for the post

absolutely 100percent right on the money !!!!

Nicky and Trudy, You are SO right.

Thank you all, As Trudy often tells me, she is right all the time and I am only right occaisionally and as I wrote this, I can feel today was one of those times.

Nick

Very true post. Great opportunity to take and listen. That's a great goal everyday!!!! Lindsey

Yep absolutely, we can't and shouldn't agrue with listening!

Good post!

Thanks for making this post....it is something to think about.....

REALLY listening is not just an art.....

It is part of real love....

=-)

Thank you for all the comments. I think you are right Alex, it is a sign of love, a willingness to slow down and give your attention to someone, rather than just making noises of affirmation whilst scanning the newspaper or looking around the room for someone of importance to talk to.

With a child if we get down at their level as well it really helps. But I think it is something we can practice and improve upon, we are not stuck with where we are. I think if you are competitive you find yourself thinking what you are going to say next and even interupting rather than truly listening and then considering what has been said before responding.

I know in a marriage class we took once, that we were encouraged to basically explain what we heard to make sure we understood what had been said. I think Stephen Covey has this by saying seek first to understand the other person.

Nick and Trudy,

Yes, if we just listen. That may take a lot of effort for some. I know it's difficult for me sometimes, when my schedule is packed and I'm on the run, to really pay attention. Thanks for the reminder to be a better listener.

I would add that we need to be prepared to respond in a supportive way if the response to the inquiry is not what we expect. Buying or selling a home is often associated with death, divorce, job loss or other unanticipated life events. It is not always a happy time. Often, our clients really do need someone to listen.