The best spouses know how to listen. As you discovered in our last post, it’s not as easy as it seems. In this portion of our two-part series, we offer several additional resources to draw upon in your quest to improve your listening skills.

Psychology Today: Deep Listening in Personal Relationships

This article from Diane Raab explores the research on deep listening and how it can transform relationships. Raab reminds readers that listening is contagious —and that, while some people are natural listeners, this is typically an acquired skill.

Forbes: 10 Steps to Effective Listening

Let Forbes break down listening for you in the clearest and most concise manner possible. After this quick read, you’ll know exactly what it takes to be a good listener.

Dr. Phil’s Six Rules for Talking and Listening

When in doubt, look to Dr. Phil for help. In this Oprah.com feature, he offers tactics for becoming a two-way communicator. He insists on establishing your motive, telling it like it is, and checking in with your spouse on a regular basis. He offers clear examples of active listening, which can transform your relationship.

The Lost Art of Listening: How Listening Can Improve Relationships

Therapist Mike Nichols knows a thing or two about the damage caused by a spouse’s failure to listen. In his award-winning book, Nichols offers easy-to-learn techniques for amping up your listening game. You’ll learn the art of deep listening and apply it to every aspect of your life.

The Zen of Listening: Mindful Communication in the Age of Distraction

Grounded in the spirit of mindfulness, this transformative book will convince you to embrace the all-encompassing practice of listening. Implement its tenets into daily life, and you’ll be amazed by how quickly your relationships improve.

Listening is like a muscle; it takes time and effort to strengthen this essential ability. Commit yourself to being a better listener, and you just might avoid the pitfalls that ended your last relationship.

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