"The wise old owl lived in an oak  The more he saw, the less he spoke  The less he spoke, the more he heard  Why can't we all be like that wise old bird?" - Edward H. Richards  The purpose of listening is not just hearing words, but understanding because as you listen carefully, you are like an observant detective, noticing clues and indicators. You don't even have to ask questions - you can just notice things, words, expressions, feelings, intent, and content. Principle #7 of the 12 Principles of Highly Successful Leaders - being an effective communicator - impacts every single role that you have in life, and today that’s exactly what we focus on: teaching you how to master the art of pure listening so that you lead a happier and peaceful life with those around you. So, start to practice it right now, by listening to Episode 223 of Becoming your Best, where we discuss one of the most challenging or difficult principles to learn and put in practice – how to be an effective communicator. As you repeatedly work on building this skill set, you will get better and better and it will be one of the most valuable skill sets that you own. In this episode, you will learn:  A vulnerable story of how I failed at being a good listener when it was needed the most. (05:45)  The two sides of being an effective communicator. (10:13) The mindset attributed to each one of the sides. (11:13) The five steps to master the art of pure listening. (15:01) The words you can use to confirm what the other person has said. (17:17) What you can do, right now, to start building the habit of listening. (20:40) Becoming Your Best Resources: Becoming Your Best Website Becoming Your Best University Website Becoming Your Best Library Email: support@becomingyourbest.com   Book: Becoming Your Best: The 12 Principles of Highly Successful Leaders Book: Conquer Anxiety: How to Overcome Anxiety and Optimize Your Performance  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.