Attentive. Engaged. Interested.

It's caring about those with whom we connect and serve, having concern for what they need and want, and listening to not only what's said, but to the true message implied. It's asking questions about how we can help.

And when we give our focused attention to the situations and people around us, everyone benefits.

Research shows that people who have high-quality connections enjoy mental and physical health benefits including lower stress, lower blood pressure, and better immune system functioning.

High-quality connections also help people feel better at work... helping them to be more creative and resourceful, and to learn new skills faster.

Be awake.

(Researchers call it "conveying presence.")

Watching is an important part of listening. Over 50% of a message's meaning is communicated through body language... and another 38% is conveyed through the speaker's tone. We've got to listen to more than just the words.

-"Messages: The Communication Skills Book," by M. McKay, M. Davis and P. Fanning (1995).

To make better connections with people (and learn much more), when you're talking with someone be sure to allow a small gap of silence between what they say... and your response.

This will help people know you are truly listening.

(Remember: a breath is not always taken at the end of a sentence or thought.)

Mark Twain (1835-1910)
Novelist and humorist

http://www.smileandmove.com/smile/wake-up.aspx