A goal of mine is to build deeper connections. I’ve discovered recently that strong communication is a prerequisite to having those deeper connections.
I admit it. I am the worst listener, unless, of course, it is a topic I am genuinely interested in. Still, I want to be a better friend. I have a few friends that are never too busy to listen to me or lift me up in their prayers. I admire that quality and want to become a better friend, listener, and person of prayer.
There are nine areas in the art of listening covered in the complimentary copy of the book I received (pictured above). The one I most need to work on first is ‘monitoring my nonverbal signals’. (You can read more about this and the other eight in the book.) In my case, nonverbals include eye rolls, sighs and looking away. Sometimes looking away is only because I am uncomfortable with the topic or feel inadequate to help. (That is one of the other eight areas.) I also learned that ’60-75% of our message is nonverbal communication’. I really should’ve figured that out on my own being married 20+ years.
“We need to give attention to our non-verbal communication if we want to strengthen our relationships.” Becky Harling
The Scripture presented in this book regarding nonverbal communication, as well as the other eight areas, were quite convicting. This book has helped me to see where I’m flawed in communication. I am eager to become a better listener.
