Attitude Is Everything

 

       Starting The Week Off Right

 

  
We Have Two Ears
    
And  One Mouth
    
For A Reason.
  
- Unknown -

Jim Seymour

772-461-2018

616-399-8201

Good Morning,
 
Sometimes it seems like listening is a lost art.  Rather than listening to and understanding what someone has to say, many people, after hearing the first sentence, tune out the rest of the message and focus their attention on developing and then expressing a contradictory argument.  The reality is that if asked what the speaker really said, they would have a hard time expressing it.  It would be clear, however, they didn't agree with whatever was said.

I find this true both in my role as an instructor at a local college or as a board member in my homeowners association.  I'm sure many of you have experienced this in public life, at work or even in one on one discussions.

This is, probably, human nature.  We all want our own way and, many times, facts just get in the way. This, however, doesn't make it right.

For good communication to happen, we need to truly understand what the other person is really saying and trying to express.  We need to listen to what the other person has to say.  This may be verbal, written, tone of voice or body language.  Before disagreeing or being accusatory, we need to clarify so we are both on the same page.  Some of the responses such as "I don't like - - " or "You are a &$%*#." etc are totally inappropriate.  Better to be saying "I disagree because - - -" and then state your reasoning.

Use your two ears to listen.  Understand the message.  Choose your response wisely and then respond, both, clearly and  in a civil manner.

It is amazing how many heated and fruitless arguments can be avoided.

Have a great week.

Jim