Do you remember the last time someone listened to you? I mean really listened to you with their undivided attention. How did you feel? I can only guess that it was a positive experience for you and that you felt important, respected and understood. Becoming a good listener is a skill that takes practice. It is essential if you really want to be able to communicate effectively with others. After all, communication is not just about talking. Listening is more than being physically present and nodding your head when someone is speaking. Active listening means showing someone 100% interest in what they are saying. Many misunderstandings and arguments evolve from situations where someone has not been heard. Sam Horn offers some very practical tips on how to become a better listener in her book "Tounge Fu!".

Sam Horn further mentions that listening is more than just waiting for your turn to speak. Learning to be an active listener takes time to learn the skill and to practice. Once you use it everyday, it will become very natural for you. By learning to be a better listener you are giving a great gift to others: the gift of respect, self-esteem and importance.