Think of someone you see casually each day, but have never talked to. A bus driver, the waitress at the local coffee shop, a cafeteria worker, a school security guard, or teacher you have never had for a class.
Even though we have never spoken to these people, we tend to make up a story in our mind about who they are, what kind of people they are, and what their attitudes are. This is entirely natural. We even do it for people we do speak to, but don’t know very well.
Take some time to get the real story.
Taking the opportunity to thoughtfully listen to the stories that everyone has to tell about themselves will enrich your life. You will meet new friends, be humbled by the challenges that some people face, and be inspired by the accomplishments they have achieved.
Hearing the stories of others will also train you to be an exceptionally skilled listener. You have to avoid making judgments and resist the urge to tell your own story in response. You want to make statements that let your storyteller know that he or she has been heard, especially by asking thoughtful follow-up questions. When you listen effectively to what others say, they will, in turn, listen to you.
Everyone wants to be heard and feel that what they have to say is meaningful to others. Engaging people by asking thoughtful questions will make them feel significant.
You will be giving a gift to everyone around you and will get some very special gifts in return.
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