3 Mindful Listening Tips to Use During Relationship Conflict – Couples Therapy Wooster, OH
Laurence Kendrick June 28, 2021
Couples Therapy Wooster, OH
1) Approach With Curiosity
You may think you already know what your partner is wanting to communicate to you, so you enter the conflict with a closed mind. It's important to be curious and open to what the conversation holds, allowing for new perspective and understanding. Show a willingness to learn, ask for details, seek clarification, and reserve judgement.
2) Tune Into Your Inner Silence
Create space within yourself for new insight. Set your views and thinking aside, in the moment, and listen with intent. Use awareness of your breath to help bring you to inner silence.
3) Listen to Understand Rather Than to Respond
During conflict, you may notice you're searching for and preparing a counter argument to respond with. Replace this with the same energy to want to understand what your partner is trying to convey. You can reach understanding even if there isn't agreement.
Are you looking for tools to help with relationship conflict? I can help.
Learn more about mindful listening.
Citation
Gillian, Florence Sanger. “4 Mindful Listening Principles to Better Navigate Conflict” gottman.com, Sept. 30, 2020, https://www.gottman.com/blog/4-mindful-listening-principles-to-better-navigate-conflict/
Laurence approaches counseling from a broad perspective of non-judgemental, solution-focused strategies that emphasize the individuals strengths and abilities for overcoming life’s trials, turning obstacles into opportunities for growth.
He enjoys working colaboratively within a family systems relational model to maximize success for individuals, couples, and families. Respecting your values, beliefs, and life experience, he looks forward to helping you re-imagine your life story to affirm that which is good, unique, and worthy of the peace and happiness you desire.
