Passing through Utah the over the past week I’ve been able to meet up with a number of friends and family.
Some friends are closer than others. A few prefer to speak in person rather than over the phone or Facebook. With some we discuss the same topics we have for years: work, sports or the weather. Yet we seldom drive deep into anything too deep or personal.
But I noticed something in common with those I’m closest too and have the most meaningful conversation: a near 50% balance of speaking and listening.
This seems obvious. A conversation isn’t one person speaking to another for an hour. A balance of listening and sharing comes naturally with some friends while more effort is required with others.
I wonder what my children would say the balance is when we get together? Maybe I don’t want to know the answer, but maybe that’s exactly what I need to hear.
Nordquist Blog 