How can I listen better?

The key to responsive listening is to be able to listen without judgment, that is, to listen for understanding, not to reach an agreement. How can we become more attentive and responsive listeners? Here's the process. Sit opposite the speaker, relax and concentrate. Let the speaker start talking about the feelings or specific ideas he is experiencing or wants to share. Pay attention to verbal and nonverbal information. When the speaker has finished four or five sentences, interrupt the speaker and say, "Let me see if I understand you." Then, repeat the information or feelings you just heard in your own words: "You just said …" "Your feelings are …" "Am I right?" If the speaker makes a mistake, please clarify what you didn't understand or heard wrong. When you both understand, the speaker can continue to say the following words, and the response process begins again. Remember: the purpose of the speaker and the listener is to understand, not to reach an agreement.