Some women complain that their husbands and boyfriends don't listen. So it might come as a shock to learn that some guys feel the same way about the ladies in their lives.
Ladies, don't worry if you’re guilty of this. Even if you haven't been the best listener in the past, there are simple ways to improve your listening skills and show the man in your life you care.
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1. Keep Your Eyes on Him
You don't have to stare at your guy while he speaks, but you’ll want to maintain good eye contact. This shows you're interested in what he has to say. If you're constantly scanning the room and looking for things to do, he might feel you're not interested in the conversation and shut down.
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you don’t have to stare at your guy while he speaks, but you’ll want to maintain good eye contact. This shows you're interested in what he has to say. If you're constantly scanning the room and looking for things to do, he might feel you're not interested in the conversation and shut down. Instead, try to focus on his facial expressions and body language. This will help you better understand his emotions and respond more effectively. A gentle smile or nod can go a long way in showing that you're engaged. Remember, active listening is key in building a deeper connection.
2. Acknowledge You're Listening
But it isn't enough to maintain good eye contact, you also need to acknowledge you're listening to the conversation. Nodding your head, smiling or occasionally saying words like “yes” or “right” proves you're engaged in the conversation.
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But it isn't enough to maintain good eye contact, you also need to acknowledge you're listening to the conversation. Nodding your head, smiling or occasionally saying words like "yes" or "right" proves you're engaged in the conversation. Active listening shows genuine interest and respect for the speaker's thoughts and feelings. Additionally, subtle gestures such as leaning slightly forward and mirroring body language can further demonstrate your attentiveness. This kind of non-verbal communication builds a stronger connection and trust, making the interaction more meaningful. Remember, small expressions of attentiveness can make a big difference in how you're perceived.
Frequently asked questions
Oh, it's simple! Guys really appreciate when someone takes the time to understand them. Listening makes them feel valued and respected. Plus, it just feels good to know someone cares about what you have to say!
Honestly, yes! Communication is a two-way street. Listening to each other helps build a stronger connection and trust in the relationship. It's like saying, 'Hey, your thoughts and feelings matter to me!'
That's tough, and it's totally fair to feel frustrated. It's important for both partners to feel heard. Maybe try talking to him about how you feel, and see if you can find a mutual understanding or compromise.
Absolutely! When both partners make an effort to listen, it can reduce misunderstandings and strengthen the emotional bond. It's like giving your partner a space to share their world with you — super meaningful, right?
Definitely! It's not just about one person doing all the listening. Both partners need to put in the effort. After all, a healthy relationship is built on mutual respect and understanding. Men should be just as willing to listen as women.
3. Don’t Interrupt
As hard as this might be, fight the urge to interrupt your guy as he speaks. If he's talking about his day at work, or if he's trying to explain his viewpoint on a matter, let him speak and get his point across before saying something or explaining yourself. Remember, communication goes both ways. So don't monopolize the conversation or think your point of view is the only one that matters.
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As hard as this might be, fight the urge to interrupt your guy as he speaks. If he's talking about his day at work, or if he's trying to explain his viewpoint on a matter, let him speak and get his point across before saying something or explaining yourself. Remember, communication goes both ways. So don't monopolize the conversation or think your point of view is the only one that matters. Truly listening shows that you respect and value his opinions and feelings. This not only fosters a deeper emotional connection but also makes him feel appreciated and understood by you.
4. Avoid Distractions
You might be a good multitasker — or someone who's able to do multiple things simultaneously. But when your boyfriend is talking and wants your undivided attention, this isn't the time to be distracted by work or text messages. Understandably, you’re extremely busy with work or school. But I’m sure you can squeeze in five or 10 minutes and have a conversation with your significant other. Besides, if the situation were reversed, you would want him to extend the same courtesy.
5. Ask Questions for Clarification
If you don't understand something your guy says, don't just agree to end the conversation. Get clarification and make sure you fully understand his point of view. Getting clarification helps avoid misunderstandings and arguments later.
6. Don’t Make the Conversation about You
Some females have a habit of making a conversation about them. If your boyfriend or husband is talking about his day, don't jump in and start talking about your day and take over the conversation. It might appear as if you weren't really listening to him, and he might feel you don't care about his day or feelings. Even if you have exciting news to share, let him finish his thought.
7. Don’t Hurry the Conversation
Your boyfriend or husband might talk to you about sports, bands or other subjects that don't interest you. As a result, you might hurry a conversation in order to move to a different topic, namely one you're interested in. However, the same way your guy listens to conversations about your friends or your interests, you should be willing to engage in conversations that spark his interest.
Listening is important, yet it's a skill some people haven’t mastered. Even if this isn't your strongest quality, the above tips can help you improve and show your guy you care. What are other ways to improve your listening skills?
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Comments
beccaswart:Gosh, I have such a hard time with eye contact & not being a multi-tasker while someones talking to me. I don't want to come off as rude, but I am listening! 😁
Nicky:Awesome :p listening goes a far way in life, if you can learn to listen you can understand many people in general at heart. Love this post. It's awesome :)
Chickidee_29:I just skimmed the article like yeah, uh huh, good article yes haha. Oh the irony
Rash:Guys may not be so talkative but if they want to share something to you, make sure you listen and understand well. It's always great to have a fair communication on both sides.
Rash:Great post!
peony:just remember they also have to listen as well. Sometimes they interrupt and don't listen so it goes both ways thank you.
Rhonda:Great post-applies to both
Megan:It may seem like small stuff, but if you listen on the daily he'll tell you the BIG stuff too.
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