Listening and Effective Problem Solving

When there’s a problem at hand, it’s easy to want to jump in head-first and get things done. No one likes problems, and when you think you have a good idea for fixing one, it’s perfectly understandable to want to take the reins. 

But think about how often you’ve done that in the past. How often has it actually worked? Even if it has, what was the cost? Was there something that could have been done differently — or even better? 

One of the best things you can to help you be a more effective problem solver is to work on your active listening.  

That means more than just hearing there’s a problem and trying to come up with solutions. Really listening can go a long way in helping you come up with a better solution that will be more effective. More importantly, it will get others involved who might have different perspectives and fresh ideas. 

So, why is learning to listen before problem-solving so important, and how can you be a better listener?

The Importance of Active Listening

A good listener is a better problem-solver. Listening helps to build a framework for solutions. Not only will you be able to explore the problem more fully, but you’ll learn more about the root cause. When you know what’s causing the problem, you have a better chance of finding a solution that works. 

Another effect of listening is that it shows people their opinions and ideas are valued. Sometimes, pausing to listen to others’ solutions can go a long way in boosting the strength of a relationship or team. It can build someone’s confidence, help them in a leadership position, and improve your relationship with that person.

Listening can also help you become a better “student” of life. No matter what kind of problem is in front of you, you’re not going to have every possible perspective in your own mind. No matter how creative or intelligent you are, you’re not going to be able to come up with every solution. People’s lived experiences and identity variables often give them different ways of viewing the world that can offer innovative perspectives and solutions.  Listening to someone else’s ideas can help you learn a lot and consider things you wouldn’t have thought of on your own. 

Understanding How to be an Effective Listener

So, what can you do to listen before offering your own ideas? 

Give the people you’re with a moment to speak first. If you tend to jump in quickly with things, try making a habit of pausing. For those of us who really struggle with this it may help to picture a stop sign or counting a few beats. Give others a chance to share their ideas. It’s an easy and effective way to make sure you’re hearing other perspectives before offering your own. 

Speaking of hearing, go beyond that. Being an active listener is about more than hearing what someone else says. It’s about truly listening and taking in the information they’re offering. 

The Three R’s of Active Listening

To be an active listener, try to repeat, reflect, and respond. 

If someone says something that requires more information or intrigues you, repeat it back to them. Ask questions to make sure you understand what they’re saying. Use nonverbal cues to let them know you’re engaged. If it’s a particularly complicated explanation, you can let the speaker know that you’ll take notes on what they’re saying because you don’t want to miss any important details. These simple actions can encourage a person to keep going and to keep actively communicating. 

Active listening isn’t just a show or an act. When you truly commit to listening before problem-solving, you’ll take other ideas and opinions into consideration. It builds a sense of respect and fosters collaboration.

Whether you’re in a professional setting or you’re trying to improve connection and collaboration in your personal relationships, take a step back before speaking. Learning to listen can take time and effort. But you might be surprised by how it can change your perspective, offer new ideas, and take some of the weight off of your shoulders when it comes to problem-solving.

Chanderbhan Psychological Services

About: Chanderbhan Psychological Services is a therapy practice located in Laredo, Texas. We help individuals and couples who are struggling in different areas of their lives gain the clarity they need to grow and change. We also offer telehealth to individuals located in the wider State of Texas.  To read blogs on mental health and relationships, visit our website.