Ugh. It’s so noisy.
Phones going.
Office humdrum.
The open plan can be so noisy.
How do I focus on work?
Wait.
Is that Sandy on the phone?
She sounds really distressed.
I’ll get her a cup of tea and see if she’s alright.
There is a difference between hearing and listening.
My fellow Sam’s volunteer Karen got me this lovely Not-Valentine gift that articulates so well, what Samaritans do, and how active listening can be applied to your daily personal and professional life.
The world is full of problems.
Sometimes, what people want isn’t for someone to solve the problems for them.
Sometimes, what they want is for someone to just listen to them.
At our core, our deepest human need is to be seen, to be heard, and to know that we matter.
And we can fulfil this need with a very simple act.
Active, non-judgemental listening.
I see you.
I hear you.
And you matter.
Happy Valentine’s day. ♥️
