1. Why doesn't listening always happen when two or more people are talking?
Sample Answer: Often an individual's thoughts are too preoccupied to listen attentively. This preoccupation tends to involve a focus on how to reply in a way that proves a point rather than effortfully listening to what is being said without a preconceived agenda. As the author states, "It takes practice to loosen our attachments to our own goals."
2. According to the author, what is the purpose of dialogue?
Sample Answer: The author describes the purpose of dialogue as "to listen for understanding, to share and exchange ideas, and to seek new insights that were not present at the start."
3. Write a paragraph or two that is self-reflective that attempts to describe how you currently listen to others.
Sample Answer: When I attempt to observe my listening style, I find that I do, in fact, have hidden agendas during conversations, especially with those close to me. I do note that I hear very little of what the other is saying as I am focused on what I want to communicate to the other - usually my point. I find that I feel frustrated that the other is taking so long to communicate and tend to interrupt them to get my point in. I am left feeling frustrated, unheard and angry.
Or..
Sample Answer: I make every attempt to put my own agenda on the shelf when I listen to others. I realize that I might not have all the information necessary to really understand what is being communicated to me. I find appropriate pauses to add to the conversation in a way that shows the other that I truly heard them. After the conversation ends, I tend to feel closer to the other and resolved.