Listen is a powerful word. It’s an act that most of us do not do well. We are so busy with life and overwhelmed with distractions that it is difficult to truly listen. Listen to our spirit. Listen to our spouse. Listen to our children. Listen to God. We are quick to interject, multitask or tune others out. There is so much we can gain from listening to others. We can learn more about one another and we show that we are genuinely concerned and interested. It really is a selfless act because we give up what we might want for a moment and we serve someone else by giving them our full attention.

I am completely aware of all the times I have half-heartedly listened to my children because I was caught up in work or the times I didn’t give my full attention to my husband’s conversation.  Any given day, holds countless distractions and opportunities for me not to listen and be fully present in that moment.

Think about how much richer your life would be if you made a conscious effort to listen. Listening without distraction. Listening without interjecting. Listening to understand others’ perspectives. Listening without judgment. Listening and being moved with empathy. How much different would our world be?

Next time you have an opportunity to stop and listen, make the deliberate decision to listen completely. Honor that person with your complete, undivided attention. Truly listening opens a whole new world.

*Coletta is an author, business executive, life/business coach and speaker who is passionate about helping others go beyond stuck. Her latest book, “Beyond Stuck: Creating the Life You Want” is available on Amazon.com.