There have been many instances where I have used selective attention while listening to conversations. From previous experience, I realized it was kind of rude to not really listen to particular things my friends were saying, since it was not a subject of interest. Recently in a small group conversation with classmates, they would talk about motorcycles, cars, and motor sports. Those were topics I was not interested in, since I did not know much about it. When they talked about class work or entertainment, I would pay more attention in the conversation. I would join in, and talk about the current happenings in American popular culture. I found out I lose focus when my classmates talked about a subject I am unfamiliar with. As the transition into school or movie related topics, my attention span increases tenfold.
A way I was able to overcome this was to make an effort in listening attentively in their conversation on motor sports. I would start asking them basic questions, like “what is the best motorcycle, what is the best car?” I was able to learn about the differences between driving a car and a motorcycle. There was also a television channel called Fuel TV where they showed all types of motor races around the world, which I found fascinating. From asking questions and fully listening, I was able to expand my interests on new things.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
You made an excellent suggestion in trying to overcome selective listening, which is by asking questions to help become interested in the topic. When I started engaging in the discussions my father would start with me about school, it was easier for me to listen and retain his point throughout the discussion. At first, when I used selective attention, his words sounded repetitive over time until I realized the benefits. People have said that when parents care, they tend to show you in ways that make you feel they are lecturing you. Since I have had many conversations about education, the purpose, the benefits, etc. I stopped active listening and started nodding my head a few times to show that I was paying attention.
ReplyDeleteI like your post on how you overcome your selective listening with something that you find enjoying. Your concept of talking about motorcycle’s to create a more interesting topic helps you concentrate better on the conversation. I find it easier to listen easier to someone who has the same interest’s as you do. Especially when I’m at a dog park. Talking to all the dog owner’s gives you a sense that they are listening to your stories because many of them have gone through the same experience as well. This helps me easily listen to what they’re talking about and becoming interested in it as well.
ReplyDelete