Imagine that you have just completed a visit to your doctor’s office. During her exam, she tells the doctor that she hasn’t been sleeping well. The doctor says “It’s just your nerves”, ends the exam and tells you to schedule your next appointment in six months. You leave the doctor’s office feeling ignored and upset.
The next day at work you have a department meeting to discuss new marketing ideas. During the meeting, he offers a suggestion, however his manager quickly dismisses his suggestion and then asks her colleagues for other ideas. When he ends the meeting, he returns to his workspace with a little less confidence because his idea was so easily rejected.
The problem is not necessarily your nerves or that your ideas are inferior. The real problem is that they weren’t listening to you. Whether it’s your doctor, your manager, a friend, or a family member, it’s easy to forget how beneficial it is to be taken seriously and truly listened to.
One of the many benefits of being heard is that it helps reduce tension and stress levels. You don’t have to keep things inside and it gives you a chance to blow off some steam. Having someone to listen to you gives you the freedom to express yourself, your thoughts, and your concerns.
It can also help you sort through your feelings and emotions. Being listened to can help keep your fears from growing and give you perspective on life’s daily challenges.
It comforts us when we can talk to someone who listens to us. It makes us feel cared for and lets us know that we are important and that our lives have purpose and meaning. We feel validated and worthy and are reminded that we are not alone in the world.
Studies have shown that being listened to improves our emotional and physical well-being. Being listened to gives us the opportunity to improve and enjoy our lives, and that is the most important benefit of all!
http://www.ihavetime2listen.com
