If speaking is silver, then listening is gold.– Turkish proverb |
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Think of the last time you had a conversation with someone about a personal issue you were struggling with.
What was it that the other person did that made you feel better?
Whenever I look at my own experiences to answer this question, the answer is often the same: the other person listened with their entire being. And when the other person just listens – when they are fully present – it seems to lessen the load I am carrying. Simply listening and being fully present – in the here-and-now – while someone is sharing something personal can make the other person feel a little ‘lighter.’
Most of my clients often share this sentiment, in that simply talking about their problems and personal challenges seems to make them feel better; it seems to lessen their psychological load. When you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, reach out to someone you trust. Then, just ask them to listen for a bit as you unload. It’ll help to lessen the stress of what you’re carrying, and your vulnerability at sharing what you’re carrying will help to build the relationship as well.
Richard
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How Listening can Lessen the Load
