Hearing vs. Listening

Scott Schwab:

Is there really a difference between the two words? Some will say yes, others would say no. Personally I feel that there is a large difference, and as always think that it plays into our health.

Hearing, is simply registering the words or sounds that we hear. It does not mean that we internalize them or even take a moment to see how they relate to our lives. An example would be the times that we are in a conversation and we are only thinking about how we will respond or what we will say next. Evidence of this is having the experience later when we say, "I should have said this". However, the point is to take the time to digest what is said and furthermore thinking about our responses.

Listening, is the skill or talent of not only hearing what a person has to say, but taking the time to feel or understand where they are coming from. The difference in communication is vast and allows for much more clarity in our conversations. Not only will we be able to respond with more feeling, but it will inhabit an environment that validates the thoughts and feelings of others. That validation is one thing that every person needs and you can tell by the way that people seek for validation. Mentally we will find ourselves being more satisfied with our conversations and interactions with others. Having good communication skills with others brings satisfaction and gives people a feeling of belonging or being a part of something.

It was because of this difference that I have tried to change the way that I converse with others. Try listening to everything that a person says before you say a word. It is helpful to not have a cell phone or anything else around that would distract you. Allow yourself to completely get involved in what the other person is saying. It may not even be that interesting, however, people will always remember and appreciate a good listener. Many times it will also bring on forms of opportunity, because you have developed a skill that fewer people today even have.

Here is a great article for further reading on the subject.

http://www.ehow.com/facts_5001888_difference-between-hearing-listening-skills.html