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The Art of Listening to Yourself
Most of us spend our lives listening to others—our bosses, our partners, the constant hum of social media. But how often do we truly listen to the one voice that matters most? Our own.
When the Silence Speaks
Listening to yourself isn’t just about making decisions. It’s about recognizing the quiet signals your mind and body send before they turn into shouts. Often, we ignore the subtle fatigue, the slight pang of hesitation, or the spark of excitement until they become burnout, regret, or missed opportunities.
An Example:
A few years ago, I met a woman who was technically "successful" by every standard. High-paying job, busy social life, beautiful home. But she felt utterly hollow. During our sessions, we realized she had spent twenty years listening to what her parents wanted, what her industry demanded, and what her peers admired. She had never once asked herself: "What do I actually enjoy?" The process of reconnecting with her own voice was slow, but it started with acknowledging that she had a voice at all.
Small Ways to Start Listening
- The Morning Check-in: — Before you pick up your phone, ask yourself: "How is my heart feeling this morning?" Don't judge the answer. Just listen.
- Locate the Feeling: — When you feel stressed, where is it in your body? Is it a tight chest? A heavy head? Your body often speaks before your mind does.
- Write Without Thinking: — Take a pen and paper. Write for five minutes without stopping. You will be surprised at the truths that come out when you stop filtering yourself.
You don't need a degree in psychology or a week in a silent retreat to start. You just need to be willing to sit with yourself for a few moments and truly hear what is being said. Your inner voice is patient, but it thrives when it is finally given the floor.
Written by:
Mrs. Sunita Verma
Lead Listener & Educator, Therapy Connect