Article Category : Candidate Planning, Self Improvement

Yesterday I spent some time with a friend and kept my mouth
shut. Well, not the whole time, but most of the time.

What kind of friend was this.

A person who’s expertise in health is one I admire and seek
out whenever there’s an opportunity.

So, here was a chance to ask a lot of questions and Listen.
It made me realize why I don’t like small talk. Never
have. So, we didn’t talk about the news, barely mentioned
the weather, and there definitely was no gossiping about
others - just a joyful exchange of helpful information and
laughs.

This friend is highly successful. He’s a great listener.
Because of that, he connects on a deep level with those
he’s listening to. The result of this careful attention is
that his answers to questions are intuitive, lightning
bolts of reason.

When you hang around people who haven’t accomplished much
with their gifts, you notice that they like to talk - and
have a hard time listening.

Makes you realize why they’re life is in a rut.

They’re not asking the right people the right questions,
because they aren’t open to change. They can’t even
concentrate on the predicament of their own life, let alone
anyone elses.

It’s much easier to talk than it is to listen. Listening is
an art. And it must be cultivated every time an opportunity
presents itself.

One of the best exercises you can do is to pay close
attention when some one is talking. In addition to learning
what they have to say, you’ll develop strong powers of
mental and physical concentration.

You can practice this anywhere, anytime. Even on the phone.
That’s just what I did a couple of days back. When I talked
to one of my mentors, a master teacher who knows what it
takes to go from rags to mega-riches. He’s done it.
Needless to say, he’s someone I listen to closely.

And when I do open my mouth I ask a lot of questions.

I know what it’s like to be at the receiving end of
questions too. And, believe me, most questions only need
short answers. Not much people ask requires a long detailed
explanation. That’s saved for the serious students, the
ones whose eagerness to learn spurs everyone else on too.

I am such a student. And you should be too. Because every
person of greatness remains a student for life.

So if a life of wealth is your goal, read and listen to
those you wish to emulate. Immerse yourself in the topic
you want to succeed in. Listen closely and quietly.

And put all you learn into action immediately. Action is a
critical part of listening. Implementing wisdom is hearing
it all over again. That is the key to a prosperous, joyous
life.

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Tania Gabrielle French is a composer who has enjoyed
performances and radio broadcasts of her music worldwide.
Her new CD “Renewal” (released January, 2006) will feature
a rejuvenating fusion of new age, classical, and world
songs.
Subscribe to her popular newsletter at
http://www.prosperousartist.com
© 2006 Tania Gabrielle French. All Rights Reserved.
erved.

Category : personal-tips, improvement