Seek First to Understand

                                                                              

This is adopted from one of Stephen Covey's "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People." Using this strategy is a shortcut to becoming a more content person. 

Become more interested in understanding others and less in having other people understand you.  It means mastering the idea that if you want quality, fulfilling communication that is nourishing to you and others, understanding others must come first.  When you understand where people are coming from, what they are trying to say, what's important to them, and so forth, being understood flows naturally; it falls into place with virtually no effort.  When you reverse this process, however, you are putting the cart before the horse. 

Stop interrupting others and listen carefully.

Seeking first to understand isn't about who's right or wrong; it is a philosophy of effective communication.  When you practice this method you'll notice that the people you communicate with will feel listened to, heard, and understood.  This will translate into better, more loving relationships.