Living: the ultimate team sport

Are you a listener?

Posted on January 29, 2015 Updated on January 30, 2015

And when you think you’re listening, are you really listening or are you constructing a response to the person who is talking to you?  All the instructional teachings I’ve read about being fully present in any given situation indicate that true listening can’t afford the luxury of distraction.

True listening honors the person with whom you’re connecting.  Conversely, being distracted reveals ones disregard for someone. 

But it’s hard to actively listen; I can’t turn down the volume of my thoughts; my self gets in the way.

Listening isn’t just about using one of your five senses.  Listening also means that you’re in tune to what’s being said and to what others need from you in any given moment.

The following is a quote that encourages a greater emphasis on the art of listening:

For me to grow, I listen … I do a lot of soul-searching and just watch and try to feel what’s going on.

Sage words spoken by someone who’s considered one of the deep thinkers in his field of expertise: Earl Thomas, III, Seattle Seahawks All-Pro safety and one of the most feared defensive backs in the NFL.

I bet you didn’t see that coming.

Football isn’t just about being beat up on the playing field.  It’s about teamwork and active participation in the lives of those with whom you work.

See also:

• It’s about more than me
• The team mindset
• Teamwork: playing nice together