Running Head:JOURNAL ENTRY WEEK 4 #5&6

Reflective Journal Entries
Liberty University

Running Head: JOURNAL ENTRY WEEK 4 #5 1 Week4 #5
In chapter 5 I realized that in my listening assessment that I need to listen for unidentified markers and meanings that are not readily apparent. I also need to show more empathy and be careful of rash labels that could hinder my ability to see meanings of what is being said. My goal from this is to build relationships based on trust and understanding. The response categories can map out a pattern for me to use in listening. The text labeled these response categories as empathetic, recommendation and asking for more information(Allen,1995) My ultimate goal after this weeks assignments is to be a more empathic listener. The guidelines I identified with is to be an active listener. The active listener will demonstrate interest in what the talker in saying. The goal will be to actively listen and to create a chain of events in the communication cycle that will allow the talker to open up and share more as I actively listen. As the talker gives more valid information I will apply the response category of asking for more information by asking valid questions. This empathetic listening skill will allow for a more complete communication model. Good communication skills can also help with those emotional situation and strengthen relationships.

JOURNAL ENTRY WEEK 4 #6 1 Week 4 #6

The text this week brought out more on the empathetic approach that can assist the talker in developing their own solutions. As the talker becomes more comfortable and open to disclosing, personal insight and problem solving can begin(Allen, 1995). The techniques that were most identifiable to were venting, open acceptance and reflection of feelings. I can see where this skill or process will empower the speaker to start the process of solving their own problems(Allen,1995). My goal with this process is to give appropriate verbal feedback of what was communicated in addition to my assessment of the feelings that were communicated. As a caring and nonjudgmental listener, the ideal relationship of comfort can keep certain feelings low and relieved. Being Christlike in my approach to listening is the perfect solution to building that comfort level. In Psalms 46:10 it reads, “Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth”. Sometimes we have to be still and listen and be aware of nonverbal signs to see what is real.

References
Burley-Allen, M. (1995). Listening: The forgotten skill: A self-teaching guide. (2nd ed.). New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.