Research tells us that relationships are important in terms of life satisfaction. It is so strange that we are often the least “mindful” with the people who matter most to us. Do you every find yourself thinking about what you are going to say next rather than really listening to what is being said? Do you finish other people’s sentences?
It is easy to become complacent in our relationships. Do you ever find yourself distracted in conversations or not fully present? This can be quite damaging when we are not fully present in our interactions with our most important relationships. Practicing mindful listening is a great way to become more present in your interactions, and to show the people in your life that they matter to you
“Mindful Listening” is giving your full attention to someone and being genuinely interested in what they are saying.
When listening to another person, we are often there in body but not fully present. Very often, we are not truly listening to them; we are caught up in our own mind chatter. We judge what they are saying, mentally agreeing or disagreeing, or we think about what we want to say next.
Try this instead in your next conversation:
- Let the other person do most of the talking
- Notice if your mind wanders
- When you notice it wandering off, come back to what the person is saying.
- Notice how it makes the other person feel. Perhaps they feel heard and respected? Perhaps you understand more of what is being said?
It can make the other person feel valued and shows that you are interested in what they have to say.
REMEMBER: One of the most beautiful gifts that you can give the people in your life is your attention.Learning Mindfulness Meditation can help you develop your ability to focus and be remain present.For more information on Mindfulness Meditation Workshops visit my website : www.mindbodyenergy.com.au or reach out diretly :info@mindbodyenergy.com.au