OBSERVATIONS

This week I was thinking that sometimes we say too much and don't listen enough. We all have our own story to tell and sometimes we cannot wait to get it out. Other times we never seem able to get it out as others seem to be having the same urge - to get it out. The point is, no matter where we stand in this situation we sometimes need to step back and just listen. Take a breath before opening your mouth, reflect and think before you speak. Have you ever found yourself supposedly listening but instead you're actually thinking about what you are going to say in response to what the other person is saying. I find myself doing it often. So, take the moment and give the person you're listening your full attention. Focus on what they are saying and you might not then miss exactly what it is they are trying to say. Use eye contact and give the other person your undivided attention. Try it. You might be surprised at what you might 'hear'!

 'Open eyes wide
Look deep at the soul inside
Of the person you see
And this might be the key
To the insight you need
That plants the seed
Of that special idea
That did not come near
When your 'eyes' were shut tight
and your mind was in flight' 
(Alison)

Try it this week and see what you come up with. If nothing else the exercise will help you practice not only your patience but your attention and recall skills.

Good luck until we next meet on this page.

Alison