Mindful Listening

No matter how hard I try to remember someones name when introduced I forget it within moments. It's so frustrating. I am listening. I am focusing and trying to remember but I think I'm so focused on what they are saying after name dropping that their name flies out the window, gone.  I try to associate the name to someone or something I know but that's not foolproof either.  Maybe it's just age and we should all wear name badges.  People would probably be friendlier and there would be more connection if our faces had names!

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Or remember the time (I can say that because I know I'm probably not alone here) you sat in a meeting or lecture and there seems to be a few minute gap where you have no clue what was said? We have limitations as humans and our attention span certainly is one of those. In fact it's getting worse.  Everything now is immediate and fast paced. No time to ponder, dwell or reflect.  I don't see this as progress exactly.

 However we can train our brains to improve this skill.  Our brains are not "fixed" like once thought.  Neuroplasticity enables us to grow our brains in whichever direction we choose and make certain neural pathways stronger.  There is hope for us all!

There is so much misunderstanding and conflict due to mindless listening.  We hear what we want to hear. We automatically put our own spin on conversations based on our experiences and perceptions.

That's the thing "automatic behaviour." The practice of mindfulness highlights this automatic learned behaviour enabling us to change our ways.  

Imagine a world of mindful listeners. It would be a more peaceful and harmonious world for sure. So where should this mindful listening revolution begin? With me and with you.

Sue