Chiropractic Blog

Do you confuse hearing with listening?

Hearing is a neuromechanical function that translates subtle changes in air pressure into electrical signals detectable by our brains. Listening is a social skill in which we surrender our attention so we can decode the meaning and significance of that spoken by another.

While hearing is about comprehension, listening is about interpretation. Hearing is passive. Listening is active. Most of us hear, but rarely fully listen. (Ask your spouse!)

How to listen:

Be fully 100% present with the other person.
Show up empty without your answer ready.
Replace the tendency to judge with curiosity.
Use your own words to confirm what you're interpreting.

True listening communicates your respect for patients and ultimately how much you value them. They can tell whether you're listening or merely "reloading," faking your interest to fulfill your own agenda. More telling is that your attention profoundly reveals your intention.