Think about all you heard today. How much did you truly listen to? If you practiced active listening you heard more that the average person. The skill of actively listening takes practice. The next time you are listening to someone stop and think about what they are saying, look them in the eye, and then restate to them what you heard. Restating what they said helps them because they know you heard them and it helps you because you know for sure that what you heard in correct. Often what we hear is not all that is being said. Along with actively listening and making eye contact, notice the tone of voice and what words are emphasized. Take note of the person’s body language and posture. Take cues from the person and respond to them in kind. Sometimes people just want to know that someone really listens to them. Our concept of self is often linked to how we perceive others view us. When we take the time to actively listen to those we love we gain knowledge of their point of view and we know we have added to their self concept.