learn to listen better

If you know ahead of time you’re going into a situation like a party, remind yourself first that everyone loves to talk about themselves, so ask them questions about their life, work and interests, then listen and expand with follow up questions.

If you’re dealing with a spouse or loved one, decide that it is not going to be an argument, that there is plenty of time for all sides to speak. When the other person starts speaking, try to imagine you are in their shoes. How do they feel? What point are they really trying to get across to you? If something they say hurts your feelings or makes you mad, shake it off and stay focused on this person you care about. Ask clarifying questions and then try to respond by saying “I hear you saying —--, is that right? Then respond with the most positive, helpful response you can come up with. If that isn’t satisfactory, then ask what is a way you can work together to agree on what you have both heard. If things get emotional, always use “I feel “sentences, as it is very hard for someone else to tell you your feelings are wrong.

Man, I really need to get better about listening to my wife. I don’t mean to forget things, but I do. I am not getting down on myself, just wish I didn’t forget things so much.

You become more alert when you listen. It’s easier to understand and you don’t act so clueless.

When listening, it is nice to do just that, instead of formulating an answer or trying to “solve” a problem.

Antartica, Galapagos Islands, Çhile, Peru, Norwegian fjords, Bora bora.

Already covered..N’gorogoro crater (garden of eden), Luang Prabang (Laos…lovely temples), Halong Bay (N vietnam..Surreal), Ibiza (nice!); Maldives (heavenly paradise oxymoron??!), Lakshdweep, Northern Himalayas…(Tranquil/Awesome!);Masai Mara…...........many more japan,duoro valley, Portugal, mexico, New England, Great Ocean Road( S.Oz); amsterdam (most cosmopolitan city in the world); Barcelona, Koh Samui, Bangkok, KL, ...........all over India…..Kerala….....so much more to see and experience….... I Have Miles To Go Before I Sleep…............