Supportive Listening
Each person takes half the time available, to be listened to and simply paid
attention to even if not talking. The other half of the time you are the listener.
The listener may offer supportive words, but should not interrupt or bring in
their own experience. It is enough just to be listening attentively and
non-judgementally. It is OK for there to be pauses; the listener does not
have to "interview" you, or otherwise keep the conversation going.
Being listened to in this way helps you move through what is distracting you from
being clear. It is a way of moving you on to being able to take initiative in new
ways.
From experience, just having someone listen to you with no strings attached can
bring up strong feelings. This is especially true when you stop talking a lot
and really notice that someone is listening to you supportively. Although this
can be scary, it's a positive experience. Try not to be embarrassed.
This is done in absolute confidentiality. Afterwards, the listener must
not refer to what is said to anyone, not even to the person who said it.
Updated: 6-17-02