Listen Up

“Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.” – Winston Churchill

Maybe it is because I’m shy. Maybe it is that I find it interesting to hear what people have to say. Possibly it is for a reason that I have yet to think of. Yet, the fact remains that I’ve always liked to listen.

I find that I learn more from listening to others than speaking. That’s not to say I refuse to speak or that I don’t form my own opinions. It is to say, however that I think there is something great to be gained from listening to others. Especially if we don’t agree. The views of others can challenge our own in a way that helps us grow. I step back here to say that I’m not talking about arguing or debating those are things in which I don’t particularly enjoy. I do believe that we can enjoy listening and maintain conversations with people without always having to be right.

I think you’ll find that people love it when they realize you care or will listen to what they have to say. So my challenge to you is to have the courage to listen.

What do you think? Write it in the comments and I’ll listen.