I want to become a better listener

[JVo]

Hi there,

For a long time, I've really wanted to become a better listener. I want to become more present. During conversations, I frequently feel like I'm going in and out - my focus isn't there as much as I'd like.

I've heard meditation can help one to become more present. What sort of exercises would you recommend for me? I have started counting my breaths and trying to remove all thoughts from my head for 10 or so minutes at a time. I am having a hard time envisioning what this will do for me exactly.

Any advice would be great!
Thanks!
Julie

[Hazelkay]

Welcome to the forum!

Have you downloaded the free meditation course by MIchael - this is a great tool to get you started.

keep us posted
peace and joy

[Karmoh]

For a long time, I've really wanted to become a better listener. I want to become more present. During conversations, I frequently feel like I'm going in and out - my focus isn't there as much as I'd like

Hi Julie,

One secret is to stop listening, not to the person talking but to what’s going on in your mind.
To become a good listener you have to allow the other person to enter your space or to put it another way allow them the space to talk. When someone is talking we tend to form opinions, objections and answers as they are talking, if the subject is boring we allow our minds to wander off, “what's for lunch” “what’s on TV tonight”. Have you ever butted in when someone is talking because you have an opinion? All this is simply because we haven’t learnt to give people space to talk.

With a simple meditation practice, like the one offered above. You can learn how this space works by giving yourself the space to watch how your mind works.

Best of luck

[JVo]

Thanks for the responses and for the explanation! I will download the course.