Hello and welcome to another episode of the Perception Podcast with me your host Caroline Partridge. Today I'm joined by Tracey-Jane Hughes who describes herself as a listener, and listening trainer. Tracey-Jane shares how the discovery that she wasn't a very good listener hit her hard, but how that realisation subsequently altered her family communication style for the better. We discuss what good listening looks, or rather sounds like, the important distinction between listening and hearing, the dangers of not listening to ourselves, others, or our environments, and how technology is impacting the art of listening. Tracey-Jane also shares actionable tips on how to listen on a deeper level. So please join me as we look at life through a different lens.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
True listening involves all senses, not just hearing words. It requires being fully present and attuned to the speaker's energy, body language, and underlying emotions. This holistic approach to listening can dramatically improve communication and understanding in all relationships.
Many people believe they're good listeners but often fail to give their full attention, especially in today's multi-tasking culture. Recognising this gap is the first step towards becoming a better listener and improving communication in all areas of life.
Technology, particularly smartphones and noise-cancelling headphones, can hinder our ability to listen to ourselves, others, and our environment. This disconnection from our surroundings and inner voice can lead to a reliance on external sources for guidance and decision-making.
Effective listening involves hearing without prejudice or the need to immediately respond or fix. It's about creating a space for the speaker to express themselves fully and reflect on their own words, which can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and problem-solving.
Listening to oneself is as crucial as listening to others. Many people seek external advice or validation instead of tuning into their own intuition and inner wisdom. Practicing self-listening can lead to better decision-making and a stronger sense of self.
Improving listening skills takes practice and conscious effort. Key strategies include stopping to focus, looking at situations from different perspectives, paying attention to gut feelings, and taking moments to breathe and connect with oneself.
Good listening is foundational to effective communication in all areas of life, from personal relationships to professional settings. It fosters deeper connections, better understanding, and more meaningful interactions.
The ability to listen without immediately interjecting or reinforcing potentially harmful narratives is a valuable skill. It allows people to process their thoughts and feelings more effectively, often leading to their own insights and solutions.
BEST MOMENTS
"Listening with all of our senses is something that I believe is what listening truly is."
"A lot of us will hear something and make up what that means to us. So there's already a disconnect."
"It's not for us to fix others. It's for us maybe to reflect back, to listen and reflect back what we hear in an unprejudiced way."
"We forget that actually we need to practice. Talking about listening is so, it helps us, I think, reflect on our own, the way that we move through life and our own journey."
ABOUT THE GUEST
Blog
Tracey-Jane Hughes inspires people to listen creatively, enabling liberating lasting change in every part of their life. She empowers people to have the courage to listen and supports them to explore, be curious and start enjoying life despite the chaos, confusion and anxiety that is often the reality. She believes in the power of possibilities and nurtures potential through her loving, compassionate approach.
Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Passion-not-enough-enterprise-sustainable-ebook/dp/B07QMRPMK7
Socials & Contact:
Website: tracey-jane.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/traceyjane
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