Look into people's eyes when conversing with them
Summary
- As much as appropriate, look into peoples eyes when talking
Details
- Many underlying emotions are revealed by a persons eyes. If we are aware of these we will be better able to show empathy to people
References
Quotes
Look into the other person’s eyes as much as is appropriate. Notice any discomfort you may feel with eye contact. Don’t be invasive, but also be willing to extend the contact for a second or a breath longer than you normally would. It’s a profound way to receive another person.
Research by Paul Ekman and others has shown that underlying emotions and attitudes are often revealed by fleeting facial expressions, especially around the eyes and mouth. Observe these, and also be aware of the other person’s posture, as well as speed and intensity of movement. Imagine what you would be feeling and wanting if you had those facial expressions and that body language yourself. This will tend to engage the mirror-like networks in your brain that tune into the actions of others.
Related
- Focus on the present - Anthony de Mello
- Listen to others even if they have faulty reasoning
- Listen patiently as Jehovah listened to Abraham
- Listen to people intently without any electronic devices
- Listen for meaning behind peoples words in conversations
- When you listen to people listen fully
- When we listen fully the speaker communicates differently
- Share with someone who wants to listen or listen to someone who wants to share - James Clear