How to Become a Better Listener

Listening tends to be contagious and how we listen can impact others. Deep listening where a person feels truly seen and heard is a condition for learning to listen. Understanding adult development theory, particularly subject-object theory, can help improve listening skills. In this theory, listening involves identifying what is subject (fused with) and what is object (able to be examined and discussed). Listening below the surface and being curious about the meaning behind words and phrases can enhance curiosity and understanding.