Mindful Listening
When was the last time you truly paid attention to how you listen? Active listening—not just hearing—is a vital skill practiced daily by those who influence Monday to Monday. While listening feels natural, active listening requires concentrated focus and genuine connection with the speaker.
Step 1: Concentrate Your Focus
You can’t give undivided attention if distractions compete for it. Phones, messages, and even people can steal your focus. Even a small lapse can cause you to miss key points. Practice tuning out distractions to truly engage in the conversation (Psychology Today).
Step 2: Clear Your Mind
We all tend to formulate responses while others speak. But influence doesn’t happen if you aren’t fully hearing the message. Discipline yourself to clear your mind until the speaker finishes. Pause before responding to consider their full meaning (Harvard Business Review).
Step 3: Remain Patient
Patience is tough but essential. Sitting quietly while someone shares—even when topics feel boring or slow—keeps you present. Patience builds trust and credibility, key pillars of influence (Forbes).
Your challenge this month: practice these three steps at least five times daily. Influence Monday to Monday starts with truly listening.
Until next month, wishing you influence Monday to Monday.
