I’ve become fascinated with a new subject lately – the skill of Listening. It is a special quality and a priceless gift we offer to another person – to truly Listen to them.
In his outstanding book, The 5 Love Languages, by Gary Chapman, he has studied and compiled his famous list of “distinct ways people express and receive love”:
- Words of Affirmation: Using verbal compliments, words of appreciation, encouragement, and written notes to affirm love.
- Quality Time: Giving undivided attention, engaging in meaningful conversations, and doing activities together without distractions.
- Physical Touch: Expressing love through physical affection, such as holding hands, hugging, kissing, or sitting close.
- Acts of Service: Doing thoughtful things to ease a partner’s burden, such as chores, cooking a meal, or running errands.
- Receiving Gifts: Presenting meaningful, thoughtful tokens or gifts that show the person is cared for and valued.
Dr. Chapman suggests that understanding and intentionally using these languages can significantly strengthen relationships.
I have also heard of the Language of Quality Time described as Focused Attention, a key component of Listening.
It is amazing to me that a person’s DISC Style can have a strong influence over their Listening skills. That is to say, it can influence, but not dictate the quality of their Gift of Listening.
Over the next month or so, I want to take one DISC Style at a time and delve into how each Style influences this Listening skill. I hope it will be insightful and useful to you.
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