The Practice of Listening (Like, Really Listening)

When I first started my journey to be more present, the very first word that came to mind was: listening.

It sounds simple, right? But let’s be honest—real, focused listening can be surprisingly hard. Even for me. Especially in the middle of a busy day, when my mind is racing ahead, juggling tasks, and mentally checking boxes. I think my husband and kids would agree: I have room to grow here.

But here’s what hit me: if I’m not truly listening, how can I expect my girls to learn how?

So here’s what I’m committing to:
I’m going to stop.
I’m going to look into their beautiful eyes.
And I’m going to listen.
Fully. Without distractions. Without multitasking. Without half-hearing.

Because our kids are watching. They learn what love looks like, what connection feels like, and what presence means—by how we show up for them.

And multitasking? It’s become a badge of honor in our culture. We pride ourselves on how many things we can juggle at once. But sometimes, the most important thing we can do is just one thing—listen with our whole selves.

I can always tell when my kids need me to really tune in. Alexandra, in particular, has this thing where she’ll gently grab my face with both hands, pull it toward her, and say what she needs to say. It melts me every time—and it wakes me up. Because when someone reaches for your attention that intentionally, you give it.

And when I do? The results are incredible.

The other day, Alexandra launched into a full story about how she’d care for a dinosaur. I asked questions, she got animated, and we ended up having a 10-minute conversation about habitats, food preferences, and what to name her T-Rex. It was silly and sweet—and so deeply her. That moment wouldn’t have happened if I had only been half-listening.

This is what presence looks like. Not perfection. Not performance.
Just being there. Fully. On purpose.

So here’s a simple challenge:
Next time someone you love wants to talk to you—your child, your partner, your friend—pause whatever you’re doing. Look them in the eyes. Let your phone rest.
Just listen.

Because those are the moments that matter. That’s where the good stuff lives.

Try it. And let me know what you hear.