If you want to become a successful person I strongly suggest that you learn to become a good listener. One of the greatest things you can do for someone is to show interest in them by listening to them. Every man married to a woman can tell you the benefits of listening to their wives. 

 Lawyers, Doctors and Sales professionals would be hindered if they were not successful listeners. So many people fail to be good listeners because they are so caught up in thinking about what their response will be to the person they should be listening to. 

We spend 45% of our waking day listening. Only 25% of people listening to a speaker will be able to comprehend the central idea. If you don’t believe me, next Sunday ask your fellow church member what the sermon was about as you walk out of the Church. 

A good listener will look at the person speaking. He will occasionally nod his head in understanding, and when appropriate ask questions. A good listener never interrupts. Tell that to an Appellate Court. It is not easy to be a good listener. You are constantly trying to stay focused. 

My friends and colleagues consider me an excellent listener. I use the two functioning ears that God gave me. Furthermore I am in accord with the Greek philosopher Epictetus who said; “God gave man two ears but only one mouth that he might hear twice as much as he speaks,”  

Remember that when you listen to a person you show them honor and respect. We all have encountered people who are so busy talking and trying to get their point across that they do not listen to anyone else. We often avoid those type folks.  

My wife comes home from shopping and immediately says to me: “Guess who I saw at the mall?” I respond, “Who?” She says “Jane Doe”. I say who in God’s creation is Jane Doe?”  She says, “Oh you don’t know her.” I then ask, “Well why would I care that you saw her?” She replies, “No real reason.” I then look at Greg Jr. Alexis and Chris and we all shake our heads. The truth is Debra just wanted someone to listen to her. Guys you have to listen in order to keep the peace.  

Kids listen to your parents when they give you direction. They have your best interest at heart. So put on your listening ears and become a great success in whatever you choose to do.

In the words of my dad: “Stay away from the pig ears and fried pork chops.  Eat more fruits and vegetables.”