By Susan Liddy

Right now, take a moment.
Stop what you're doing... free your hands... free your mind...
Listen.

What do you hear?

I hear soft music in the background, a dog barking occasionally, birds chirping, someone talking in the distance. I hear cars driving by, an airplane flying overhead, my own breath and the occasional clearing of my throat.

I also hear an inner voice, my voice, providing a constant murmur of acknowledgements and encouragements. Sometimes that inner voice isn't so positive and empowered, yet right now, at this moment, it is. This is a good moment and I am thankful for having "stepped into it."

What are you noticing? Are you amazed by all that you "hear?" All that is going on around you and inside of you in this moment? This moment is rich with experience and information.

And, this is not unique to "now." Every single minute carries with it so much aliveness. What would your life be like if you could capture all of this richness and use it to your benefit?

For me, the art of listening once required conscious practice and was not without frustration. It was about no longer shutting down; it was about opening up. This was scary and uncomfortable, yet led me on a path of aliveness and connection that I hadn't previously known.

Reality Check

How can you open up to life through listening? Below are four ways to tune into this moment and capture its richness:

Listen to others, and transform your relationships.

When we give other people our undivided attention, we come to know a profound connection with them. Listen for and beyond the words for the emotion, the deeper meaning. Listen with patience, compassion, and acceptance. Listen with an open mind and heart. We all want to be heard and understood - what a gift to give others.

Listen to yourself - and begin to honor your true spirit.

Tune in to the sounds your body makes. What does the effort of your breathing, the heaviness of your feet, the tempo of your pace, tell about you? Listen to your manner of speaking. What might your tone and expressions reveal to others? Listen to your inner voice. Does the person who you are on the inside feel at peace with what's happening on the outside? If not, can you offer comfort, reassurance? What things can you begin to change, so that your "song" rings more clear and true?

Listen for opportunities.

The universe has a grand design, one that includes fulfillment and happiness for you. It provides us with many opportunities to make this happen, yet we must be listening to notice the opportunities or they will pass us by. Listen for the sound of someone who may need your help. Listen for an empty spot to fill with your positive energy. Listen for a sigh of relief, knowing you made a difference to someone today. Where might this knowledge take you tomorrow?

Listen to your environment.

When we feel connected with our surroundings, we begin to know real peace and fulfillment. Take time to hear the sounds of nature - the rushing of river waters, the rustling of trees, the sounds made by the earth's creatures. We are all connected. We are part of this creation. When we listen to the environment, we keep that connection alive. We once again connect with our reason for living.

Fearless Integration

Practice your listening technique.

Warm weather has arrived -- and with it, the sounds of new life and new growth. I challenge you to shut off those electronic devices - the cell phone, the television, the radio and the computer. Instead, open your ears and your mind to the world and all of its beauty. Practice the four listening exercises described above and begin to see the difference it makes in your life.

Did you know that Aspire Life Coaching offers a complimentary coaching session in an intimate group setting? Learn more on our coaching services page, then contact usfor more information.

About the Author:

Susan Liddy, MA is a Life Coach and founder of Aspire Life Coaching™. Susan works with women who feel stuck and disconnected, and who long for healthier relationships, more passionate career, higher self esteem and/or better body image . Susan’s programs empower women by reducing their emotional fears and then provide support and encouragement as they achieve their life goals.

©2007 Susan Liddy, AspireLifeCoaching.org, All rights reserved.

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