- Listen
- Repeat key points of what they said so that they know you heard them
- Speak clearly and say what you mean
- Agree to disagree to leave conversations on a positive note
- Stop looking at your phone
Looking for more? Ask and you shall receive!
Here is a more in-depth explanation about being heard and understood.
3 Ways to be Heard and Understood
Everyone wants to be heard and understood. Here are 3 ways to make it happen.
This article will inspire you to find your voice to be mutually visible, heard and understood in your relationships.
Mark Zuckerberg: ‘My goal for the next decade isn’t to be liked but to be understood’. Mr. Zuckerberg’s statement speaks to one of our common human interest which is often ignored…to be understood.
Being understood and understanding others is one of the social underpinnings that bring different people, groups and countries together. It is valued by most people, most of the time as it affects our interactions at all levels, in our personal lives with family members, in business, social communities and planetary coexistence. However, being understood comes as the result of our personal investment in seeking to understand others.
1st. It begins with being visible. What does that mean exactly? It means that as humans we appreciate being included in the decision-making process, in matters that affect one’s life. Likewise, include your loved ones to make decisions in matters that affect their life.
2nd. You want to be heard, so does everyone else. Practice active listening which is an exchange of energy through symbols acknowledging the person speaking through; a smile the universal symbol of friendship, a nod or use your voice to say “I hear you, or can you clarify that for me? An acknowledgement doesn’t mean an agreement, but it opens the window for further communication to be mutually understood.
Can you imagine what a difference this would make in your interactions with your loved ones, friends, co-workers, your boss , or business partners? How would you feel if any one of these people in your life instead of dismissing or judging your ideas say, help me understand when you share your perspective? Which leads to our third point and the focus of this article.
3rd. being understood comes as the result of you seeking to understand others. It is an opportunity to affirm each other’s presence and contributions in our relationships. In essence, include others in making decisions, let them know that you are listening and give what you want to receive.
Tania Milagros Garcia, MSW, LCSW, CMHIMP B2NCenter.com