The Empathic Listener

Summary

When it comes to effective communication, a wise man once advised, "Be quick to listen and slow to speak." If ever there was a time to employ such advice, it is today. In our modern society we are conditioned from youth to expect constant distractions and interruptions. The result is an ever-shortening attention span which is potentially detrimental to our relationships, both social and professional.

In this book you will learn easily-adaptable techniques for focusing and remaining fully-engaged in a way that will allow you to extract the most from your conversations. The people you talk with on a daily basis will perceive that you are paying attention, and, most importantly, that you actually care. When that happens, your relationships will take on a whole new dimension, bringing a deep level of fulfillment and opening new opportunities in all areas of your life.

Topics covered include:

• The difference between active and passive listening


• How to tune into nonverbal cues


• Achieving self-directed mindfulness for staying engaged


• Identifying and overcoming your natural barriers to active listening


• Tips and tricks for cultivating a "listening mindset"


• Recognizing your own biases and assumptions, and learning to thwart them


• Exercises for improving your overall attentiveness


• The role of emotional validation in effective communication


• Techniques for navigating difficult conversations


• How mastering active listening often precipitates strong leadership

...and much more!