We often have a hard time seeing others’ needs because we tend to view them through the lens of our own needs and desires. When someone talks, do we listen, or are we merely waiting for our turn to speak? Do we have expectations or desire specific outcomes when someone shares their story, and we reply with our “solution”? The vision of the individual before us gets distorted because of the vision of ourselves. I share this because I am guilty of doing this.
Acknowledgment of this habit allows us to distance ourselves from the emotion and see it for what it is. The perception of the person in front of you is based on your emotional state at the time. Once you acknowledge what you are doing, you distance yourself from the emotion and can see it objectively.
Listening is essential for good communication. Relationships are often improved when communication skills get better, and along with it, a more joyous and prosperous life.