AM I A GOOD LISTENER?

I really do not know if i am a good listener or not? I am often caught in a situation wherein people from different walks of life come to me and share their concerns or problems. I do not know most of them but they spend time to talk to me. Most people who are faced with distressing circumstances would always find someone to talked to.They do not really believe that I can solve their problems. They do not think I have the best advice for their problems. Perhaps it is really man's nature to appease their emotional burden by trying to share it to someone. I am not sure if those who came to me were comfortable talking to me but I am sure that they find it helpful when they were able to express what they feel. Problems are not something one can switch on and off that is why most people can't resist at sharing it to others. Some would resort to displacement (they hurt others as a way of compensating their own hurts) and others even would commit suicide just to get away with it. Expressing one's emotional crisis is the primary step of acknowledgment that their is way out or that problems can be manage. It is also a healthy way of telling oneself that problems are temporary. On the other hand listeners must recognize that they can help and even can save lives.

If you are in a situation where someone needs your listening ears then be very much willing to do so. Be a good listener. Allow them to cry, don’t stop them. Crying may provide a great relief for the person. The most important thing to remember in these situations is that you are providing comfort, listening, and trying to help solve a problem. According to Joe L., in listening to someone with a problem, one should let the rules of common sense and logic as guide. Avoid also of letting the event ruin your day or overrule your priorities. Do not play as catcher of problems by trying to divulge yourself with the painful situation, empathize instead. Recognize that you’re only temporarily turning your attention to someone’s problem. Once the problem has been addressed, then return to your daily schedule.

Be very grateful that you are able to help.