When men have a problem and they tell you about it, they want to know how to fix it. When women have a problem and they tell you about it, they just want you to listen. Studies show women generally talk more than men – 20,000 words a day compared to 7,000 words respectively.

You can still struggle with listening to someone describe a problem and trying to solve it.  To me, it’s like placing a thick succulent, juicy steak or a large bowl of steaming, buttery popcorn in front of me and just watching it. My mouth is watering just reading those last words.

I found it very difficult to resist saying what comes to mind in trying to help someone or giving a solution or two before I’ve been asked.

How to just listen and not fix problems

I usually try to focus my mind on actively listening to the person by maintaining eye contact, nodding my head and saying some verbal cues indicating that I understand. 

Asking questions and taking notes often helps you remember your ideas, but can ruin their train of thought and become a distraction.

Write more active listening techniques that work for you in the comments.