Some experts have suggested that we have trouble listening and remember very little of what is said to us because we usually focus on body language (55% ), vocal intonation (38%), and only 7% of the speaker’s words. No wonder listening is tough, as the first corollary of Chisholm’s Third Law of Human Interaction states: “If you explain so clearly that nobody can misunderstand, somebody will.”
Many of us prioritize waiting for our turn to speak over fully comprehending the speaker. In this process, our speech may become negligent, manipulative, or self-centered. But attentive listening shows respect, nurtures trust, encourages rapport, and helps find common ground even in challenging conversations.
