Breaking Barriers: Adjusting Your Listening Lens for Productive Communication
Dr. Stephen de Wit
Keynote Speaker: Empowering Relationships Through Turbulent Times
While we often focus on what we say or how we present ourselves, we tend to overlook a critical aspect of communication: listening. How we listen to others significantly impacts how we perceive them and the quality of our interactions.
There are people in your life that think you are smart, creative and inspiring. There are also people in your life who think less of you. You could say the same thing to those two different groups and the lens they listen to you through will shape how you show up for them. Do they think of you as a genius or a gerbil?
The listening lens refers to the way in which we perceive the person speaking and interpret the message their conveying. It encompasses our ability to truly listen, understand, and empathize with the speaker's perspective. Our listening lens is shaped by our beliefs, biases, experiences, and preconceptions, which influence how we receive and interpret information.
However, often without realizing it, we unintentionally create barriers to effective communication by allowing our listening lens to cloud our judgment. When we approach conversations with preconceived notions (I.e. my boss is a gerbil), assumptions, or a lack of genuine interest, we hinder our ability to truly connect with others. By recognizing and adjusting our listening lens, we can break down barriers and foster more productive and meaningful professional interactions.
When we listen with a closed mind, interrupt, or fail to acknowledge the speaker's contributions, we create an atmosphere of disconnect and diminish the value of their perspective. Such behavior not only hinders effective communication but also erodes trust and damages professional relationships. By consciously adjusting our listening lens to one of respect, we can foster an environment of collaboration and mutual understanding.
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Who do you listen to as a gerbil? As a genius?
Who listens to you as a genius? As a gerbil?
Next week I will share what you can do to shift the listening lens.