Mindful communication has to do with being mentally and emotionally present when communicating with others. It is about practicing deep listening rather than being preoccupied or distracted by the thoughts and stories in our own minds. It is about paying attention to more than just the words that are being said, but to the feelings as well.
To practice mindful communication and deep listening, notice if you are really present or if your mind is wandering. Are you making eye contact and listening without expectations, prejudice or judgment? Are you aware of feeling impatient or thinking about what is "really" important or where you need to be next? Are you distracted by other people or activities that are taking you away from being truly present?
Mindful communication has great rewards. You may feel a connection that you have never felt before and you may feel understood for the very first time. This then sets the stage for future understanding and connection. In today’s hectic and fast paced world, I believe that most people are starving for this type of communication. I wonder what it would be like, if today, we could each be the change we would like to see?
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| A late afternoon snapshot after school in England - they are listening to each other intently. |
I was just listening to "The Art of Mindful Living" by Thich Nhat Hanh today on the way home from work. Not sure if your concept is related, but it does sound similar to the Buddhist practice of breathing and self-awareness. Sounds so simple, but it can make such a positive difference in our lives.
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