Have you ever had a conversation with someone and left the conversation feeling like the person wasn't listening to a thing you said - even though they were the ones asking you questions?

Yeah, me too!

In this post, I want to share with you 5 specific ways that you and I can be better listeners.

1. Minimize distractions. Put your phone away. Turn the TV off. Stand or sit with your back to the distractions. Ask yourself: What distractions do I need to minimize so I can be present in this conversation? Take action!

2. Make eye contact. This should be obvious, but it bears repeating. :)

3. Empathic responses. Some examples for you include: You're disappointed. You feel like you got the wind knocked out of your sails. You're angry. You're hurt. If you're getting something wrong, don't worry about it, your friend will likely correct you.

4. Use open-ended statements or questions. These statements will be based on what you've heard from the person. Statement example: This is a very difficult time for you. You're worried about how this may be perceived. Question example: How are you feeling about the news you received today? Can you say more about...?

5. Clarify what you hear. Example: Did I understand you correctly when you said...? Is that what you said? You feel overwhelmed by all that's on your plate.

I'm so grateful for the Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Unit I took last Spring, it's transformed the way I care for people. And people need care. They need to be heard. They need someone to bear witness to their story

What would you add to these ways to listen suggestions? Let me know in the comment section below.