Listening In A Polarized World

"No one is as deaf as the man who will not listen.” - Jewish Proverb

The main challenge in today’s contemporary world is listening to each other and creating the space for people to feel heard. Listening unlocks the key to understanding.

But it's more than just hearing the words someone is saying. Listening should be active, meaning one is actively processing the context of the words shared, along with other verbal and nonverbal cues, such as voice inflection, tone, facial expressions, and body language. When we actively listen, we are practicing mindfulness, as it is an opportunity to be present with those around us. We do not allow distractions to take away our focus on the most impart thing in that moment: seeking understanding, showing compassion and demonstrating empathy.

The Templeton World Charity Foundation is funding the largest ever research project into understanding what makes a good listener and how we can become better listens for ourselves as individuals, and society. Researchers share the inherent importance of listening with attention and remaining open-minded to others as essential steps to becoming better listeners and foster stronger relationships.

Everyone wants to be heard.

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