Over this past year, research on self-awareness, social cognition and our ability to understand others has become more prominent in understanding our ability to change, learn, and develop as individuals.
One aspect that is particularly intriguing to me is deeply watching and observing others when communicating with them. When we engage fully with another person, dedicating our entire attention to them, the results can be shocking and revealing.
While most of my interactions have been positive, I have also had less-than-desirable interactions. One common example is how many individuals will talk and answer questions, while never letting the conversation reciprocate by returning questions and listening. They may appear to ask questions, but the lack of genuine attentiveness becomes apparent, and I quickly realized they weren't really listening.
I recently read an article by Jordan Peterson, who advised that if people are not listening to you, stop talking to them. Instead, watch them; they will tell you who they are and what they are up to. I have put this into practice, and it has been an eye-opening experience. You quickly learn what is important to people, what they value, and understand your relationship with them.
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