Have you ever considered the difference between hearing and listening? Although they might seem similar, there is one element that sets them apart.

Hearing is a passive process that does not require conscious effort. 

Throughout our lives, we are subject to background noises: traffic, music, birds, thunder, and rain, which are part of the place where we live. We hear them, but have no active part in causing them or paying attention to them  

For many years, I have suffered from mild hearing problems, which have affected various aspects of my daily life, such as family gatherings, school, and social situations.

It makes communication harder, especially in noisy places, when talking on the telephone, listening to the television, and struggling to follow conversations with a group of people. In some situations, I am not always aware of someone speaking to me, and sometimes we don’t know what we can’t hear.       

Listening is an active process that requires focus and understanding.

Life is a learning process that requires us to physically play a part in educating ourselves. Whether we are learning a subject at school, are learning at work, or participating in a meaningful conversation, we need to listen. 

Listening requires curiosity, purpose, and a concentrated effort on our part.

I have worn hearing aids since age 50, which have enhanced my hearing. I heard background noises I hadn’t heard before, like the sound of rain. Sometimes the background noises would drown out people speaking to me. So, I had to learn to listen by paying attention to the speaker.  I learn more by showing interest with eye contact, nodding, and taking notes. 

Asking questions about the subject in an acceptable manner also communicates that you are listening and paying attention.

People often listen with the intent to respond rather than the intent to understand what is being said; they are relying more on hearing than listening. 

Fidgeting with items, looking at the phone, and looking around rather than at the speaker show that we are not listening. When we interrupt, openly judge, and assume differently about what is being said, we are less likely to take in information. 

Some people just want someone to listen and to understand what is happening in their lives. Give advice only if asked for, as this can be quite invalidating. 
The wonderful thing about passive hearing, it allows us to relax and enjoy the sounds of nature that surround us.

The great thing about active listening is the ability to socialize and to learn new things about the world we live in and the people we live with.

I am grateful that I can hear and have the ability to listen to all that this world offers. I am sure that you are grateful too.

– Nancy