The Character of Attentiveness

Character Leadership - The Character of Attentiveness

“Attentiveness builds relationship” –Anonymous

Definition:  The trait of being observant and paying full attention to others, self and surroundings.

Neglect, Gossip, Strife, and being Mean are the opposites of attentiveness. From birth to death, we have the need for someone to be attentive and listen to us. One of the main problems facing human interaction today that causes conflicts is the lack of listening. Each of us has a deep need to be heard and cared for, be it a casual conversation or a deep therapy session. A good character leader knows that being heard is a lot like being loved, so, we must take this matter seriously, and grow in this skill as a leader. To be a character leader, you must know how, and be willing, to listen. This will create the attentiveness our family and friends need.  

Attentiveness is a natures’ gift that is for everyone Listening is something we all can do, even if one is deaf or blind. It is a body language. Attentiveness is a natural ability, and a skill that can be improved by simply turning it on and letting it work. We can also learn techniques to improve this ability. Attentiveness strengthens discernment and discretion of a person.

Reflection:

          Ask yourself, “Have I been attentive to my family?” Our family is our major if not, the most important support system we can ever have in life. Many a times, our family is usually attentive to our needs especially from our parents. Did you reciprocate that attentiveness to them? A character leader takes care of the family as a top priority in life.

          As Character Leaders, we must extend ourselves to other people with attentiveness and what flows out of attentiveness are in-depth learning and improved relationship. Relationships are built on listening. The relationship between a husband and wife is as good as their ability to listen. The character leader is as good as his/her ability to listen. The words that we hear are not as important as the care and effort put into them; the effect of listening is that the words are not all of the meaning of the message. The primary focus in communication is the hearer and receiver of the communication in relationship to each other, which means that the care is usually more important than the words.