How To Be More Understanding

Written By Colēgia

Communication skills are the cornerstone of a healthy and successful life. Many of us will find ourselves in situations where we'll need to talk with one another about difficult topics. Sometimes someone might just need an ear to listen to and one way to help with that is by being understanding. Today we want to talk about how we can be more understanding and why it's so important.

Actively Listen

A simple yet effective way to be more understanding is by taking the time to actively listen. Active listening involves being fully present when talking with one another. It requires us to remember what someone else said and follow along with what they're talking about. Doing this demonstrates that we aren't just listening, but we're engaged with what the conversation is. Asking questions also shows our interest as well since it helps us understand and follow along better. Communication is a two-way street and we have to do our part by listening when it’s someone else's turn to talk. Being able to follow the cadence of conversation can take time and in a lot of ways we need to rethink it. Rather than trying to jump at every opportunity to talk, following along and listening can show us the art of speech.

“A simple yet effective way to be more understanding is by taking the time to actively listen.”

Practice Empathy

Empathy is what allows us to see what it’s like to walk in someone else’s shoes. A good example of this is visualizing what someone else has been through that's brought them to this point. Talking with someone and asking them where they come from and what made them want to follow a certain career for example can help provide more context. We learn when we ask questions and this applies to empathy as well. Having a sincere desire to learn more about those we talk to can make it much easier to establish trust and see their perspective. It's crucial that we learn to see things in different ways since it allows us to have a more accurate picture of what's happening.

“Empathy is what allows us to see what it’s like to walk in someone else’s shoes.”

Take Time To Learn About Yourself

If there's anyone we want to understand it’s ourselves. Many people spend a long time learning about all their interests over the course of their lives. Little things such as taking the time to meditate and reflect on your thoughts can make it much easier to do so. Doing things that make you happy and understanding what contributes to your emotional well-being can make a world of difference. Knowing who we are and what we value also falls under this. Goals are another thing that is deeply personal to us as well. Certain goals need us to be aware of them more often such as a daily goal whereas long-term goals we'll need to dedicate enough time towards. Everyone has different things they care about and recognizing what they are can give us the courage to take action and work towards these things. Understanding who we are along with others can make us appreciate one another that much more.

Colēgia

Colēgia

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