Two months ago I noticed something quite disheartening about myself. I had been noting my specific feelings for a few weeks and jotting them down in a notebook. I wanted to see if there were any connections between my feelings and ability to listen. Well, the theme popped up loudly and clearly.
It seems that I had become a professional pouter. By professional, I mean I had become so good at pouting that I could feel sorry for myself and fake my way past other people without them noticing the pout (except for my wife...her radar is too good!). I frequently felt sorry for myself because I didn't get this or that. So, like a little boy, I secretly pouted. Poor me.
Well, the effects of my pouting have greatly effected my ears. When I pout my ability to listen attentively drops off drastically.
This new insight opened a new door for me. If I want to become a better listener, I don't necessarily need to focus on listening. I address my pouting. Stop the pouting and the hearing goes up. Let the pouting go on, and the hearing goes down.
So, is my life so bad that I need to pout about my pouting? No. I'm choosing to focus on the blessings and exciting challenges that I am privileged to experience today. Presto! I've got my hearing back.
Boo to pouting. Cheers to listening.
No comments:
Post a Comment