A Heart that Hears Gives
Written by Sharon Cecil
Having a Heart that Hears
Life is about talking and listening. When talking with a group, many times you tend to be giving information that to some may seem like a lecture.
Working with youth programming for over 40 years, I must say that I have learned a lot about the younger generation and about the diversity in their ways of thoughts and reactions.
Doing a workshop for teens many years ago, a young man (the leader of the group) said to me, “Sharon, you are a wonderful educator, but you need to learn to shut-up and listen.”
My first thought was, “who does he think he is to disrespect an adult in this way.” But, I didn’t say anything to him at the time. As, his comment ran through my head repeatedly, I reflected on my style of communication as an educator and a youth provider.
Because of that young man, I truly learned the importance of listening. I changed my style of teaching, speaking to groups and workshop formats. By doing more listening, the session become more interactive, the audience was more receptive and we were all able to take away something from the experience.
You will find that by using silence you are doing much more than being silent. You become an active listener, which means you are giving your audience your undivided attention which allows for more open discussion within the group you are addressing.
Once the participant feels heard, he or she feels more comfortable and gives you a much better position for using your teaching and problem solving techniques. If you are with a group on a regular basis, you begin to build trust and make goals.
Silent Communication and Body Language
Let’s not forget that there is silent communication through body (non-verbal) language. In other words, your body can speak!
In my opinion, one of the best non-verbal communicators is a smile. It shows up on your face and in your eyes. A reassuring pat on the back to let someone know that you approve doesn’t hurt either.
You may want to ask yourself the following questions when apply the principle of listening.
How does active listening:
- convey caring
- provide a comfortable environment
- create a positive impression?
Because of that young man so many years ago, I learned that when you are an active listener, the lines of communication become more open and trusting.
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