My biggest joy over the past several months has been making connections with new people. I understand that it can be difficult for some to do that, for whatever reason. Call it lack of social confidence, fear of rejection, or worse...fear of being judged. How can you ever make an honest, genuine connection if you are judging another person while they are talking? To begin with, there is no way you can truly hear what they are saying if you are in the midst of judging them. If you are picking them apart in your mind while they are speaking, you are sabotaging the possibility of a new friendship. Take the time to listen to others, and I mean REALLY listen. Give them the benefit of the doubt for a change. Learn to put your own thoughts aside for a moment, and be attentive to their words and emotions. When you make it a habit to stand up for people's positive qualities, you strengthen your own capabilities. We can begin to develop lasting, gratifying relationships if we listen with an open heart and a genuine interest. Granted, it may not always work out, but you can at least walk away knowing you gave it your best shot.
"Friends are those rare people who ask how you are and then wait for the answer."
-Author Unknown
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