Marriage Builder: Summary tips for the ART OF LISTENING

I hope everyone is well.  I wanted to post a summary of tips for the art of listening which has to do with quality conversation.  These tips are from the book, "The Five Love Languages" by Gary Chapman.

1. Maintain eye contact when you spouse is talking.  That keeps your mind from wandering and lets your spouse know that he/she has your full attention.
2. Don't listen to your spouse and do something at the same time.  Remember, quality time requires you undivided attention.  If you are doing something and not able to turn away from it immediately, be truthful and tell your spouse.  Ask them to give you ten minutes or so to finish up with what you are doing, most spouses will respect that request.
3. Listen for feelings.  You should ask yourself, "What emotion is my spouse experiencing?"  When you think you have the answer, confirm it by saying something like, " It sounds like to me you are feeling disappointed because I forgot to __________."  When you do this, give a chance to clarify.
4. Observe body language.  Clenched fists, trembling hands, tears, furrowed brows, and eye movement can give you clues as to how they may be feeling.  When you see any of these body language, ask for clarification of what they are feeling.
5. Refuse to interrupt.  Research has shown that the average person listens for only seventeen seconds before interrupting and interjecting his/her own ideas.  Remember your goal is discover your spouse's thoughts and feelings not to defend yourself and set them straight. It is to understand them.

God Bless and continue to pray for your marriage!

Denise

Here are some books on marriage.  Be encouraged.

   

If you like to shop online visit my other blogsite Denise's online shopping stores