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When people are speaking, they require our undivided attention. We focus on them; we listen very carefully. We listen to the spoken words and the unspoken messages. This means looking directly at the person, eyes connected; we forget we have a watch, just focusing for that moment on that person.
Frances Hesselbein
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Active listening fosters genuine connection and understanding.

Frances Hesselbein emphasizes the importance of giving our full attention to others when they speak. This act of active listening, which includes both verbal and non-verbal cues, not only strengthens relationships but also enriches our understanding of the speaker's message, highlighting the significance of presence and mindfulness in our interactions.

Themes

ListeningAttentionCommunicationRelationshipsMindfulness

In practice

Example use cases

In a workshop on effective communication, this quote can be used to illustrate the importance of active listening.

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The real leader redefines or defines the mission in a very powerful way so that people understand it; it permeates the organization.
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Social-sector organizations have to be better managed than for-profit organizations... because they have no margin of error.
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In my life, I don't have roadblocks and obstacles. I might have something you would call a 'challenge.' I throw that out the window, and I call that a wonderful opportunity.
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