When the people we care about are sharing their deepest emotions with us and venting their hearts out, how can we be more effective listeners?

One lesson I have learnt is to not focus on my reactions to what they are saying. Instead listen to them. What they expect from me is all there already – in their voice, body language and words – just waiting for me to notice. When I focus on them instead of my own feelings, I can truly become the support system they want in that conversation.