In an issue of his Ministry Toolbox, Rick Warren advises, “One of the most common causes of frustration and friction in ministry is that we don’t really listen to each other. Too often we talk at each other rather than with each other.
“Research shows that we spend about 40% of our waking hours listening, yet most of the time we’re only listening at 25% efficiency, and that creates many of our problems.”
Rick goes on to offer three “hearing aids”:
“1. Listen with your eyes – Approximately 80% of communication is non-verbal. Facial expressions and body language usually tell the real story. Look at people when you listen to them!
“2. Listen with your heart – Be sympathetic. Tune in to the emotions behind the words.
“3. Make time to listen to the people around you – Tom Peters calls it “Managing By Walking Around.”(MBWA)
“Imagine how your ministry could be transformed if you focused on carefully listening to those around you.”