Welcome to my unplanned two-part series. Last month, we talked about “Divine Communication” and how it’s important to communicate with love and respect. However, there’s a precursor for that method to be effective – active listening. Have you ever noticed the wisest person in the room is usually not the loudest? To gain wisdom, you must listen. Listening to God while caring for others will equip you to exhibit the right behavior, every time. James 1:19 instructs us to be, “Quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to get angry.” Being a business owner shouldn’t be about making money first. Choosing entrepreneurship pushes you into personal development, so you can be a successful leader that money follows. As we all continue to grow, here are some things I’ve learned that have made active listening easier.
Address Your Issues
It’s hard to work with others when you are stressed or angry because personal issues can cloud your judgment and hinder your ability to listen effectively. It’s vital to do some inner work. Dealing with your issues is no one’s responsibility but yours and, as a leader, taking the time to address your own emotions and concerns allows you to approach conversations with your team and partners with a clear mind and open heart.
Seek Comprehension
There’s a difference between communication and comprehension. While someone may be expressing their thoughts and feelings, understanding them requires active effort. Some people aren’t great communicators, so when you have someone like this on your team or struggle with this yourself, it’s essential to ask God to bring understanding. James 1:5 assures us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” Those who lack communication skills are still valuable, and seeking comprehension displays humility and a genuine desire to connect with others so everyone can grow.
Imprison Your Impulses
Active listening is a sign of love, and it requires patience and restraint. Instead of rushing to solve the issue or respond immediately, take a moment to fully understand what is being communicated to you. Hold back your anger or impulses until you have gained clarity and a deeper understanding of the situation. Proverbs 4:23 tells us to guard our heart because it is vulnerable, and everything we do flows from the condition of it. If you’re not careful, your heart can trick you (Jeremiah 17:9), so be firm on protecting yourself from yourself, and you’ll easily demonstrate respect for others and cultivate a trustworthy environment.
The scripture I’ll leave you with is Proverbs 18:13 because it wraps up everything we discussed today. Simply put, listen before you speak. Active listening is not just about hearing words but also comprehending what that means for the lives with which you’re intertwined. Using the methods of divine communication and active listening, you will create a culture of mutual respect in your business. As you embrace this, you’ll find that wisdom and insight abound, leading to stronger relationships and greater success in your entrepreneurial journey. Remember you are more than capable, and I have faith in you.
Sheridan C. Watkins is a journalist and the owner of Perennial Peaces, a jewelry and gifts brand focused on transcending self-worth to all women. Her true work began after climbing out of a dark place with the help of God and therapy, and her life mission is to provide tangible peace through her Divine gifts to help women heal and transform their lives. Follow the mission on Instagram and Facebook: @perennialpeaces
