Listening is really important in supporting others and building relationships. Many people are simply craving someone to listen to them. How can you listen well?
Focus, pay attention
Listen is an anagram of silent – a lesson we can apply
They might not want to have advice or solutions, simply a listening ear
Don’t deny someone’s feelings – they are real to the individual.
Reflective listening is a really helpful technique. This means repeating back to the person – I can hear you feel very angry or I understand this is really difficult for you.
A sympathetic ear is different from pity