How to Better Your Relationships

 

We all want to be heard, but we don’t always make a point to listen. In fact, did you know the average person only remembers between 25% to 50% of what they hear? (Seriously!) But when it comes to building better relationships and truly connecting with people we love it’ll behoove us to do better.

It sounds easy, but with so many distractions (looking at you, smartphones!) listening can be hard. Do you ever find yourself so focused on what you want to say and just waiting for the right moment to interject that you miss what the person speaking to you is really saying?

Or, how about when you’re actually into what someone’s talking about, but you hear that little ding sound from your phone and suddenly lose focus? 

None of us want to be bad listeners, and we want to give the people around us respect, so today we’re sharing four easy ways to become a better listener. They’re simple things, but they can have a big impact in how you communicate with others. We all feel happier when we feel like people truly “get” us, and by listening better you’ll better understand those around you (and they may even follow your lead and become a better listener to you too!). 

Here’s how to get started: 

  1. Put away your phone. Turn it on silent or put it in another room so you won’t be distracted by any notifications, calls or texts. 

2. Repeat back what you hear. You can repeat things back in your head while someone is talking, and/or paraphrase what you heard out loud when they’re done. Doing so helps you stay focused, and makes sure you understand what was said. 

3. Don’t worry about your response. Sometimes we start thinking about how we’ll answer the person talking, or what anecdote we’ll share when we’re done — but if you’re thinking about your response, then you’re not really listening to what they’re saying. Wait until they’re done, then consider what you’ll say. (Yes, this might mean some pauses or moments of silence, but it’s worth it for a quality conversation!) 

4. Use the person’s name while you’re speaking. Saying someone’s name can actually help you focus on them — plus people love hearing their names. 

Will you give these tips a try during a conversation today? If you do, let us know if they help! We’re listening (OK, reading, but close enough). 😉 

Wishing you a fantastic weekend!

XO,
Emily and the EveryDay Happy Team

 

Quote du jour

“One of the most sincere forms of respect is actually listening to what another has to say.” — Bryant H. McGill

 

Read and Listen to More Like This 

Interview With Kim Chestney on Radical Intuition

Be Kind to Your Mind

Find Your Relationship’s Happy Place

Calm Your Inner Critic

How to Make Your Relationship Better in Tough Times

 

*We love all our picks, and if you make a purchase, we may get a little something back. Thanks for your support!

 

Latest Feel-Good Notes

Make Time for Your Dreams

Make Time for Your Dreams

What’s one thing you could do that would make this year stand out from the rest and make you feel like you took a big leap in your life?

These days, many of us are so pressed for time that we give ourselves few moments to do what actually excites us. But even if your day feels impossibly stuffed, you can make time for what really matters.

Sounds nice, but how, you may be wondering? I’m so happy you asked!

You Are Enough, Right Now

You Are Enough, Right Now

Some days you may feel like you’re not good enough, or doing enough. You may wish you could snap your fingers and turn into a version of yourself you think you should be with a perfect job, spotless house, and exciting hobbies (or whatever your definition of an ideal life may be).  

But here’s something you need to know … You are wonderful, just as you are. You are enough, right now.

7 Ways To Add More Happiness To Your Day

7 Ways To Add More Happiness To Your Day

Imagine rolling out of bed with a smile on your face, laughing throughout your day, and going to bed feeling calm and content?

While not every day will be sunshine and rainbows, there are so many things you can do to add more joy to each day.

Here are seven of my favorite ways:

A Less Stress Summer

A Less Stress Summer

Summer is synonymous with relaxation, but sometimes we find ourselves stressed out and not living our best, “feet in the sand, good book in hand,” season.

Worries happen to all of us. But, one of the easiest ways to feel more carefree is to take a moment to declutter your brain. Because here’s the deal: Our brain can only handle so many thoughts at once. Anything extra bouncing around distracts you from enjoying otherwise happy moments.

Here’s how: