We are in a communication breakdown

Fearless Listening

is our way forward
 

"When we practice fearless listening we create the conditions that safely allow what we hear to impact and evolve us." —Licity

Fearless Listening is a conscious practice of listening and awareness. We can use it to shift habitual communication dynamics. It creates a safe environment by eliminating competition, cultivating curiosity, and enhancing choice. We cherish our vulnerability and seek our shared humanity. Fearless Listening calms our nervous system through an increased understanding of our inner fears. We learn to listen to ourselves, listen to others—and listen to ourselves and others at the same time.

Fear—The Great Interrupter

Are your ears scaring you? You are not the only one. Fear is a natural part of being human. Our ears are a part of our nervous system. When we are even the slightest bit nervous or afraid, it is our ears’ job to listen for danger. This focus on danger breaks down the listening process we need to communicate across human differences. Fear interrupts relentlessly in an effort to protect you. Fearless Listening helps you develop a conscious awareness of this reaction. This awareness changes everything.
 

5 Listeners

There are five types of inner listeners that drive our reactions. Which listener are you? Fearless Listening teaches us to befriend our fearful inner listeners. It shows how to cultivate the curious listener in all of us. Curiosity is a wonderful antidote to fear. We come to understand that our fear is only one perspective inside of us, even when it tries to be the loudest. When we choose to dialogue with our fears instead of being unconsciously ruled by them, we feel stronger and safer. More parts of ourselves become available (the curious part, the compassionate part, the funny part, the loving part). We have more choices—which is both empowering to the self and calming to the nervous system. Choice creates safety. When we feel safe, we can listen. We can allow what we hear to impact us without terrifying us.

A Future Together—Beyond Right and Wrong 

Fearless Listening moves us beyond right and wrong by eliminating the concepts of winning and losing. Competition kills communication. Fearless Listening teaches that communication is an infinite and enriching life experience that benefits all involved. It turns "us/them" into "we," by making the communication itself the priority. We seek to cooperate, not dominate. This opens a space for moment-by-moment discovery. In each moment, Fearless Listening teaches us to make choices that encourage communication to continue. With our new found sense of safety and shared purpose, competition is set aside. Everyone wins.