Bernie Switala
Active and passive listening is the issue that plagues the world today.
Active listening is engaging in a conversation listening with intent,
uninterrupted and fully involved with understanding what someone is
saying verbally and non-verbally and then providing appropriate
feedback (Team). This is something that rarely occurs today because of
the many distractions and usage of phones. Passive listening is more
allowing someone to speak without interruption but not really paying
attention to what they are saying (Team). This is very prevalent in
todayàsociety. I like to call it the E!genda. People are worried
about their own issues or things to do and do not invest in what others
are saying.
In my life, I have experienced active listening when I speak to my
nephew. He hangs on my every word as I discuss football, training,
history, life decisions and other things. He wants to grow and learn
from me and it is refreshing because he is 13. I am always interested in
talking with him about things and like to see how he responds. As for
my older nieces when we talk, they are not engaged. We discuss their
college choices or what they do in life but I might as well talk to the air.
They are not actively paying attention. It is frustrating. The difference is
how enjoyable talking to my nephew is versus my nieces.
Reference
Team Technology. Project Management Training Part 5. The Power of
Listening.

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