In a world of constant chatter, finding someone who really listens is like stumbling upon a hidden treasure.
It feels good when you feel truly heard… But it’s rare, isn’t it?
While attentive listening to others fosters connection and understanding, when was the last time you truly listened to yourself?
I mean, REALLY listened.
🔻 Not the chatter in your head.
🔻No judgments, no distractions.
🔻 Not the should’s and shouldn’t’s.
Giving yourself the gift of undivided attention.
Just you, tuning into your own wisdom.
I’m talking about a practice so simple, yet so powerful, it might just change your life.
I call it Deep Inner Listening (DIL)
To cultivate self-awareness and prioritize self-care, incorporate this brief yet impactful practice into your daily routine. The best part – it takes just one minute!
Here’s how it works:
1️⃣ Pause and Breathe
Stop whatever you’re doing and just pause. Take a deep breath. Feel your feet on the ground.
Research suggests that deep breathing activates the body’s relaxation response, reducing stress and promoting mental clarity.
2️⃣ Check-In with Yourself
Ask yourself, “What do I need right now?” Don’t analyze. See what emerges.
This question encourages introspection, helping you identify unmet needs or suppressed emotions.
3️⃣ Pay Attention to Your Body’s Responses
Listen. Not with your mind, but with your whole being. What sensations do you notice in your body? What emotions arise?
Studies suggest that our bodies often signal unmet needs through tension, fatigue, or discomfort. Recognizing these cues enhances self-awareness.
That’s it. One minute. Don’t let its simplicity fool you. In that minute, magic can happen.
I’ve seen clients have profound insights using this simple practice.
➢ Leaders making breakthrough decisions.
➢ Entrepreneurs finding clarity in chaos.
➢ Parents connecting deeper with their kids.
🔑 Key Insight: The “What Not Why” Technique
Start asking “what” questions instead of “why” questions during self-reflection.
→ Instead of asking “Why do I feel stressed?”, try “What is causing me to feel stressed right now?”
This approach leads to more productive insights and actionable solutions.
Integrating Deep inner Listening into Daily Life
To reap its benefits, consistency is key.
Incorporate this 1-minute practice at various times:
💡Before you walk into an important meeting
💡During work breaks
💡When feeling overwhelmed
💡At the start or end of your day
Make it a habit, and watch what unfolds. You might notice:
✅ Stress melting away
✅ Clarity emerging from confusion
✅ Decisions becoming effortless
✅ A deeper sense of who you are and what you want
Over time, this practice will become second nature, leading to improved mental health and well-being. Research indicates that mindfulness practices, like deep inner listening, can reduce stress and enhance overall health.
I have a challenge for you. Are you ready for it?
For the next week, commit to practicing DIL 3 times a day. 3 minutes total. That’s it.
Pay attention to what shifts.
➕In your relationships.
➕In your mood.
➕In your work.
Reflect on it, and celebrate if it’s moving you into a positive direction.
Pro Coach Tip
The wisdom you seek is already within you.
Sometimes, all it takes is a moment of silence to hear it.
Keep experimenting until you find what works for YOU.
Over to You
How will you incorporate deep inner listening into your daily routine? Share below
♻ Repost to inspire someone in your network.
And follow Anshuma Arora Mukkamala, ACC for more insights into mindful leadership, intentional living, and purposeful growth.
