For someone as talkative as myself, the subject line of my email seems like a risky statement. Yes, I do like to talk. But the most valuable asset I have are my ears.

Take it from a chatty Cathy like me, its a hard lesson to learn but, when you grow your own self awareness and recognize that what others are saying is more valuable to you than your own hot air, you begin to unlock a superpower.

A few years ago, I produced a 20 minute Project Bite on this and focused my attention on the things I did WRONG in my learning to become an Agile listener.

Here's the list:

Distracted Listening - not giving your undivided attention

Righteous Listening - deciding you're right before you hear the message

Bias Listening - choosing to not listen to voices you don't like

Confrontational Listening - listening for a fight

Dismissive Listening - anti-listening or refusal to listen

Confident and well-adjusted people practice self-control; thinking whatever they like but only speaking what is helpful, garners respect from others, and fosters trust and mutual respect.

A true grown up listens to the people around them. They hear, listen, perceive the information, apply it to their current knowledge and then reflect back what they think is most valuable.

"When you are willing to hear other sides to the story, it adds context to your own position. . .remember: don't listen in defense of your own ego."

From my mouth to your two ears, I hope,