#006

Compassionate Listener's Guide to Building Bridges

By Leilani Sigsbey (549 words)

This time around, I invite you to explore the transformative lessons found within Stephen R. Covey's seminal work, "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People." Today, our focus is on Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood. In a world often saturated with the volume of conflicting opinions, this habit emerges as a guiding light, emphasizing the profound impact of active and empathetic listening before expressing our own views.

The College Soundscape

In a landscape where everyone is appealing to be heard, the college environment is a unique soundscape. Students, each navigating their distinct academic journeys, often find themselves entangled in a symphony of perspectives and opinions, while in the midst of constructing their own.

The Reflex to Respond

Covey's insight highlights a common pitfall—we often listen not to understand but to respond. Envision a professor stating a controversial opinion in a college classroom where minds are already formulating counterarguments before the other person finishes speaking. We've all been there, right? Unconsciously, we as humans have already made justification of why that statement is agreeable or not. We just can’t help it.

Intent to Understand in the College Bubble

Habit 5 calls for a shift in intent, especially in the college bubble. Instead of formulating responses while others speak, the focus is on understanding viewpoints without judgment. It's a commitment to setting aside egos and presumptions in a space where diverse perspectives converge. By seeking to understand their perspective first, I not only found common ground but also facilitated a more constructive and open-minded discussion within the college setting. The way I see, if I am able to respect your opinion, wouldn’t you respect mine?

Building Trust through Understanding in the College Leadership Arena

In leadership roles within the college sphere, Habit 5 becomes a cornerstone for effective communication. College RSO leaders, resident advisors, and student government representatives who genuinely seek to understand the concerns and ideas of their peers cultivate an environment of trust and collaboration. I find myself in opportunities like this on a weekly basis.

Your Call to Action in the College Hustle: Embrace Empathetic Listening

As we navigate the college soundscape saturated with diverse opinions, let's heed the call of Habit 5. Let's make a commitment to embrace empathetic listening in our daily interactions. Whether in college relationships, academic collaborations, or student organizations, seeking first to understand lays the foundation for harmonious and meaningful connections.

The Gift of Empathy

At the core of Habit 5 lies the gift of empathy—a powerful tool that transcends mere words. It's about creating a safe space where college peers feel heard, valued, and understood amidst the academic hustle.

In a vulnerable moment, a friend poured out their academic struggles to me and vented about their chaotic state. Instead of offering quick solutions, I chose to truly understand their emotions, asking questions and showing genuine empathy. The result was a deeper connection and a strengthened friendship built on mutual understanding, all while navigating the unique challenges of college life.

So, readers, let's embark on the journey of Habit 5, transforming our communication style from reactive to receptive. In doing so, we foster a college environment where understanding precedes being understood—a space where empathy becomes the language that binds us all in the unique tapestry of college life.