When we listen, we might have the habit of forming an opinion very quickly - perhaps before we’ve even heard the general outline of the situation. We might even be quick to interrupt with our interpretation, to explain what we think we know to this poor soul in front of us who clearly has no idea about the mess he is in.
Just like the blind men touching the trunk or side of an elephant, we don’t necessarily know what it is we’re facing. Having come to our conclusion so quickly, we might not be willing to take in the extra data that would be vital in forming a whole picture.
Besides that, when a person starts telling us something, their primary motivation might be just to be heard. Solutions come later.
When we take the time to listen to people, we can develop our perspicacity. Instead of just repeating the patterns that we have previously identified, we have a chance to learn something new.
Read the transcript and find important links on the site: A Beautiful Thought - Please Listen First: Episode 406