How many times do you share a story?
An event?
And just want to share it when someone pipes up with I have done that and better.
Active listening means to hear the person's story. Not to jump in with your story.
For example ,I went to an FC game a couple of years ago for the first time. I love the jumping fans. Thought it was so special for me. Well didn't the person I was telling have to say, we went all the time. We had season tickets. Whatever!
Each person's experience belongs to them.
It is why when a child is sharing for the first times to listen. Encourage the conversation even if you have done it a hundred times.
I learnt this skill as a student supervisor of counsellors, social workers and others in the field. The student needed the first experience of learning a new skill. Yes for me I had done so much so many times. Active listening and validating.
A good friend listens to the story. An acquaintance can become a friend by just listening and validating those positive experiences.
Anything you can do I can do better is not said aloud but it is implied when someone jumps in with a better one up!
It is why sometimes I do not want to share anything unless it is to very close people that care. When I am listening to their stories to remember to listen and not jump in!
Yes it is always a struggle to practice what you preach!
How about you? Any thoughts! Stories to share! Are you a good listener?
#anythingyoucandoIcandobetter#activelistening#rememberingtovalidateothers#agoodfriendtrulylistens#teachingotherstheskillofactivelistening#itisastruggletobeanactivelistener#reflectivthoughtsbybarbara#barbaradimambro
Totally agree. As I get older I have lost interest in the “I have done it all” people. They lose my interest, it is the first time people that capture me as an audience. Take care 🤗
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