The Critical Communication Skill Rarely Taught

Our education system trains us to read, write, and speak, but rarely the skill of listening. The essence of how to be a highly skill listener is best expressed by Stephen Covey: “Seek first to understand, then to be understood.”

Next time you’re in a discussion—especially a disagreement—don’t plan your reply while the other person is talking. Instead, try to restate their point in your own words, in a way they agree accurately reflects their message. When done well, the person you’re in disagreement with may feel as though you’ve changed your views.

The best way to ensure you’re heard is to make sure they feel heard first.

Progress Beats Perfection

Despite best efforts to follow the “perfect” diet, time management system, or morning routine, most of us fall off track.

I’ve learned is that it’s better to test and find a method, a practice, a system, or a plan that works for you personally. Most who chase something that’s “perfect” or flawless in theory but unsustainable in practice will not continue.

Even the inferior method you stick with beats the perfect one you quit.

“Progress, not perfection.”

— Robert McCall (The Equalizer)

Avoid The "As-Soon-As" Trap

“I’ll be happy as soon as…”

…I get married.

…I leave this job.

…I buy a new house.

Be careful with the "as soon as" mindset. Chasing happiness through milestones, many of which are outside our control can turn into an endless loop—each finish line quickly replaced by a new one.

The toughest part of creating any new habit, business, or skill, is ensuring you don't procrastinate moving toward our desired futures.