• Civility and manners,  Communication,  Friendship and relationship advice

    Are you really listening?

    “It is the province of knowledge to speak, and it is the privilege of wisdom to listen.” ~Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr. Have you ever noticed that some people are always thinking about what they want to say next — and not fully listening to you? In the age of constant chatter, listening is an unsung, unspoken skill. Talking, after all, is only half of a great conversation. Attentive listeners pay close attention; they don’t try to hijack or dominate a topic. Skilled listeners ask thoughtful follow-up questions after you’ve had your say, and even remember details that you’ve shared in previous conversations. Careful listening leads to healthier relationships and a…