Not much can be done without listening and the results are exponentially better with good listening. In addition to building trust and encouraging respect, learning to listen better might surprise you in its simplicity and the ways that it will alter your interactions.

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Start with making the mental adjustment to start "listening to understand" instead of "listening to respond." At the foundation of an inclusive democracy is the ability to hold space for a diversity of people and ideas. Listening is a key ingredient, particularly the kind of listening that moves from the surface of divisive topics and into the realm of values and driving forces.

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With some practice, you will find yourself learning more in conversations and arriving at common ground when that didn't seem possible. 

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