“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” (James 1:19)
Suggested Prayer: Dear Lord, help me be an attentive listener to others and to THINK before I speak.
T Is it True?
H Is it Helpful?
I Is it Inspiring?
N Is it Necessary?
K Is it Kind?
Suggested Activity: Develop good listening skills. (See
DID YOU KNOW? article below.)
Did You Know? Become a Better Listener
“Most people don’t have one person they feel listens to them deeply, and everybody loves a good listener. Here are 12 ways to become a
better listener:
- Find the right setting for the conversation.
- Face the speaker and maintain regular eye contact.
- Let go of your agenda.
- Don’t interrupt.
- Listen without judging.
- Don’t try to guess what the other person is going to say.
- Resist the temptation to reach a conclusion before the person is finished.
- Don’t start planning what to say next while the other person is still speaking.
- Don’t impose your opinions.
- Listen to the whole person by being aware of non-verbal clues.
- Stay focused.
- Ask questions.”
(Matthew Kelly – The Three Ordinary Voices of God)
