Listen, Do You Want to Hear a Secret?
January 27th, 2009
WORD COUNT: 647 SHORT, Yet POWERFUL Words
TIME to CONNECT: * 2 1/2 Minutes *
While I was in Sedona, I worked with a Shaman to explore some aspects of my personal reality that I wanted to see through a new lens.
Why? Because we all have personal filters and beliefs that color the way we perceive our reality. And when we’re able to step away from our usual vantage point, we can better understand our role in creating our life.
With a different perspective, we can understand where we might be getting in our own way. And so we’re able to move forward empowered and unencumbered. With a new vantage point, we can also connect with others in a much more profound way.
One of the things that drew me to Greg Drambour was his prerequisite. He requires a commitment from potential clients; they need to commit to deeply listen to what he has to say. I was instantly struck by the power behind this practice.
This meant that any of these potential barriers, had to go.
- “Drawing parallels” listening.
- “I’m working on that” listening.
- “I know what you mean” listening.
- “Figuring it out” listening.
- “Waiting to offer an opinion” listening.
- “Get to the point” listening.
- “Selective” listening.
- “Defensive” , “I Got It” or any of the other perspective that takes you away from what the other person is trying to share.
Do any of these mental processes sound familiar? If you’re like me, you can relate to more than a few of them.
Every one of the “listening reactions” listed will take your attention away from the person talking, and into your own ideas. If you follow the train of thought, then you end up somewhere else completely, and you’re not really listening.
In Greg’s words, “Deep listening is not listening through your thinking, but listening from your natural quiet state.”
As I experience this, I realize that deep listening is receiving without judgement or any preconceived ideas. For those thoughts are the very things that keep us from getting the message. I’ve also been using the same approach in my reading, and have noticed some very powerful results.
For when we truly listen, whether that takes place in a face-to-face conversation, or when we’re reading words on a page, we’re able to connect fully with the intended message.
When we approach reading or listening from the perspective of -what is this person trying to say – we can feel the consciousness behind the words. This is when we fully connect and understand Self and Others.
Listening intently is the difference between “knowing about” something and really “knowing it”. Knowing about something comes from shallow understanding, while “really knowing it” is a far deeper connection. When you really know something, you’re able to apply it, and that’s when profound transformation happens!
Life experience will open up new understandings. And when we’re fully present and attentive to Self and Others, we free ourselves of the preconceived notions that block our ability to truly understand the message. When we listen deeply, we’re able to feel the meaning behind the words.
Listening with an open mind is what deepens relationships and connects us with our inner wisdom.
Do you remember the old Dick and Jane readers?
Maybe there was a deeper meaning behind the words “Stop, Look, Listen” as we read about crossing the street.
Maybe the secret is to stop and look, so we can see the inner dialogue that keeps us from truly listening.
I invite you to join me on a quest to become a deep listener, one who receives with an open heart. For if I’m really honest with myself, I know that there’s much room for improvement. And this is a journey worth taking. With deeper listening comes true understanding, more meaningful connections, and more profound experiences as we honor ourselves and others … as we deeply listen.
Imagine how you would feel if you were truly heard and understood?
Your friend and partner in profound respect,
Laura
P.S. If you’d like to learn more about Greg and Deep Listening, visit Greg Drambour’s Sacred Journeys .
Copyright© Laura Cardone 2009. All Rights Reserved. This is a Daily Discovery Series edition. http://www.profitswithpurpose.com is for conscious business owners and enlightened leaders who are passionate about creating a successful business, AND a fulfilling and balanced life.
