LISTENING IS LOVING!

In my 20 years of Toastmasters membership, I prided myself on being the best listener in the meeting. I would tell new and often nervous members that if they needed encouragement up there, all they needed to do was look at me. I was hanging on their every word. I laughed at their humor, nodded in agreement, etc. Being an active listener forges a bond with the person speaking.

I find when you offer your undivided attention, especially to little ones it enhances their sense of self. Like all of us, little people just want to be and feel significant. I never thought of it as Loving but it really is.

In conversation it is most effective if you will suspend the temptation to think of what you will say next and just listen. Your response will be informed by your understanding of what the other person is saying and you won’t be distracted by your attempt to anticipate your response. This is soooooooo important with kids. They also want to be heard. They need to feel significant.

Give it a try, it will be good for you as well as the person you are listening to.

Thanks for being a Caring and Loving Grandparent and person.