72 Active Listening

The first person I used active listening techniques with was my friend as we were talking over the phone. She was talking to me about a book she is currently reading for her English class, and how she feels about it and the author. While I was listening, she took more time to explain details about her experience, and eventually asked for my opinion after she said everything. Usually, it would be more back and forth, with both of us talking about our opinions. It was a bit challenging at first to not interject with my opinion, but as the conversation went on, I found it easier to focus more on what was being said than what I wanted to say back.

The second person was my sister as we were texting. She was telling me about her day at school, which was very hectic. She had multiple projects assigned, as well as a new reading. She then talked about her day after school, with a practice for track and how she felt good about it. Our conversation flowed well because of it, with her saying everything she wanted to, while I just asked a clarifying question here and there. Sometimes I felt like I had to make sure she knew I was listening, but eventually it became far easier.

The third person was my mom. She told me about how her morning went, with helping out my siblings, how she had a nice walk with our dog, and the song she had been listening to recently. I lent an ear, nodding along with her and giving a small input when she asked for it. As a result, we had a really nice talk, and we both left the video call in a good mood. This time, it was very easy to actively listen, and to follow along with what was being said.