Blog Post 1: Relationships and Active Listening

In these first few weeks of class, we have discussed communication in the sense of listening; we have taken a closer look at the difference between hearing and listening, dialogic listening, and active listening. When reading Ann Russo’s work, Between Speech and Silence: Reflections on Accountability, she discusses her personal experiences and position within the feminist movement and how the use of communication and silence creates “powerlines” and authority within the discourse.

In this chapter, Russo talks about listening more and speaking less. She says, “Active listening, to me, implies a willingness for our identities, ideas, theories, and actions to be transformed in the process of dialogue”(Russo p.36). This line really stood out to me, as I believe listening, and active listening in particular, helps people reach mutual understandings and can build relationships between individuals. By actively listening to others, we get a better understanding of whom they are and the value they bring to our community. In today’s culture, we are constantly thinking, working, and moving; we set aside very little time to stop and listen to others. Because of this, our society lacks intimate relationships and friendships that go beyond the surface. 

This summer I had the opportunity to be a leadership camp counselor for high school students across the state of Oregon. This camp focuses on leadership skills such as networking, personal marketing, and relationship building. A key piece of relationship building is active listening; according to Business Insider, it’s about “being fully present and reflective in how you listen to the person that you’re supporting” (Lakritz, 2017). We encourage the students to take the time to meet and truly get to know the students around them. From this, they learn to put aside their differences and see that they are more similar than they originally thought. They learn to use communication and the power of silence to build relationships that benefit the community as a whole.

In relation to the quote from Russo’s article, active listening allowed students the opportunity to build strong relationships regardless of their “authority” or “privilege” over another. Ultimately active listening creates a community in which we can build stronger relationships and connections with others.

Lakritz, T. (2017). A relationship expert says anyone can start using her best tip to create a stronger bond immediately. Business Insider. Retrieved from: http://www.businessinsider.com/what-is-active-listening-relationship-advice-2017-3