I'll be the first to admit that at times I am listening to develop my next response. Today, let's take a moment to remind ourselves to listen to understand. We all want to have the power of influence, build trust, and connect with others. To accomplish this, we must work to be great listeners; listeners who seek to understand before seeking to respond. 

Here are some simple steps to practice being a great listener: 

1. Clear your mind with intention and be fully present

2. Let go of any expectation

3. Let go of any chatter in your mind that wants to reply

4. Let go of any judgement about what is being spoken

5. Let go of any assumptions that you understand 

When the person is done speaking, clarify what you heard by repeating back to them their words, ask clarifying questions to remove assumptions and ensure you truly understand, and then let there be a moment of silence to let their words and message sink in before you ultimately respond.

Let's do our part to "Listen to Understand" today.