I hear you. 

This is a commonly used phrase in today’s politically correct and woke world. 

It appears to be a form of armour and sometimes insurance.

If things go south in that conversation, no biggie, you’ve acknowledged that you heard them. 

The bigger question to ask yourself is “did you really listen?” when you mutter the phrase. 

What is your purpose of using the phrase? Is it sincerely spoken or used as a placating band-aid or said for the sake of it?

Those 3 words can either come across as patronizing or placating or assuring depending on whether the actual act of hearing is done.

When you sincerely listen to someone speak and not rush to form your own response, the time taken to listen can mean so much to the other person. 

I find that with people getting more impatient due to the fast-food culture applied throughout most aspects of our lives, we can’t wait to get our word in and / or can’t wait for someone to finish talking.

So if you’re someone who values relationships, sincere and patient listening will definitely help you deepen those bonds.

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

― Maya Angelou

Would you like every message spoken and written by you to be effective but still reflect your personality? If you would like to learn to be a more effective communicator at work, let’s chat more. You can read about what I do here.

You can read more posts on relating to people here.