Listening. How often do we consciously and mindfully listen? Are we truly taking in the words, or are we impatiently waiting for our next turn to speak? Unconscious listening is simply another way of saying “not paying attention.” When I am not absorbing words and resonating with their content and meaning, I may as well be wearing headphones in terms of my understanding. This is my segue way into describing our club Table Topics contest today. Even though I listened to the rules of the contest, I obviously didn’t hear them. I broke one of the rules and was disqualified as a contestant. Otherwise, I know I would have won.

In the future, I will be listening with a greater consciousness. To be a strong leader and an inspiring and commanding speaker, I need to be a mindful listener.