Helping those who very young or very old bears many similarities. The words we say and the intention in our heart can make a huge difference in our relationship. In both cases, listening is the basis of meaningful connections.
Understand
The first reason for listening is to increase our understanding of the person’s situation. This is especially true if we are there to help the person or suggest some change in their life.
“Seek first to understand.” ~ Stephen Covey
Trust
The second reason for listening is that the person is more likely to heed your advice and accept your help if they know they have been heard. It is a pre-requisite to building trust.
“Trust is always earned, never given.” ~R. Williams
Learn
The third reason is that we are very likely to learn something from an elderly person, not just about their current situation but about their past and the lessons they learned in their lifetime.
“A young man knows the rules, but an old man knows the exceptions.”
~ Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.
You may notice some Canadian spelling in these posts. The words may look odd but that’s how we spell them. We’re used to it.
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Author:
Unless otherwise credited, all posts are happily authored with a quill pen …
Paul Ferri, Broker, ASA (Accredited Senior Agent)
RE/MAX Unique Inc. Brokerage*, Toronto, Canada
*Each office independently owned and operated.
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