Discussion vs Discussion; Listening to Understand vs Listening to Talk
Not everyone recognizes the difference between discussion and dialogue, and it is important to understand them when it comes to any relationship, be it personal or business. I know that for the longest time, I didn’t. Discussion is talking to make a decision while dialogue is talking to understand. I think we do a lot of the former before we ever think about the latter. We want to make a decision without trying to understand all the points of view. This leads us to "listening".
There is so much static out there in the world. We are not really listening to what others are saying, trying to understand where they are coming from or what they are thinking, not unless it aligns with our point of view, and I find that very sad.
The thing is, there are two sides to every story and the truth lies somewhere in the middle. People's experiences mold them and we can’t ever truly understand another person until we either go through the same things ourselves or take the time to get to know them and really listen to what they are saying.
What good does it do anyone to shut our minds and our hearts to those around us? First, if we are open, we may find that we are more alike than different. Second, we can make a more positive impact when we are open, even if we continue to be polar opposites. You know the whole “you attract more bees with honey…” Third, isn’t there enough BS in the world? Whether you are in the right or not, the angry rhetoric just adds to the darkness, and who needs more of that?
Anyway, just something I've had on my mind for quite a while now. Take it for what it's worth...
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-right-balance/201610/are-you-really-listening-or-just-waiting-talk