Listen the way she wants you to

SALT LAKE CITY — If you’ve ever thought your husband just doesn’t listen, or your wife just doesn’t understand, you’re probably right. That’s because men and women don’t think the same way about listening.

In a recent article on FamilyNow.com, author Cale Gray shared three suggestions to help men listen the way their wives and girlfriends need them to.

“Low-quality listening can lead to low-quality conversations, which in turn can lead to reduced intimacy and increased conflict,” Gray explains. “Women are naturally high-quality listeners, and men can improve their listening abilities by following these three simple tips for listening the way she wants him to.”

To improve communication, Gray first cautions men not to “multitask listen.” Instead, they need to give their full attention to the conversation — but a wife can also aid in the communication process by waiting for an appropriate time to talk with their husbands.

Next, men should maintain eye contact with their partner. The action, Gray says, “makes the statement that you are giving your fullest attention,” among other benefits.

Finally, Gray tells men to “listen with their bodies.” In other words, men should pay attention to the emotions surrounding the conversation in addition to the words.

To read more detailed information about Gray’s suggestions on listening and communicating better with your spouse, visit http://familynews.com/how-to-listen-the-way-she-would-like.

Jordan is the senior content manager for ksl.com. She also manages and writes for the site’s Motherhood Matters section, which is devoted to keeping mothers updated on the latest parenting news and tips.