What is Deep Listening?

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To really listen to others, say David Rome and Hope Martin, we must first learn to listen to ourselves. 

Deep Listening is the practice of listening to another fully without interrupting, interjecting, judging or projecting.  Listening purely to be with another where they are completely. 

​We give the gift of our undivided attention when we listen deeply.  It is common for people to want to give advice, share commentary or personal experience, make the story about them. But real empathy comes from allowing another to be who they are and not trying to change them.  Empathizing with their feelings, listening to their words and tuning into their energy.  And holding space for it while remaining centered in yourself. 

There are three principles of Deep Listening:

• Listen to learn
• Listen for understanding rather than agreement
• Ask powerful questions