Boredom and Overexcitement

Page 130

It can be hard to listen to a speaker whose voice lulls you to sleep or whose presentation is lifeless. It can be equally hard to listen to a perfectly competent speaker who is giving a presentation on a boring topic. When something (or someone) seems overwhelmingly dull, we can wind up daydreaming. There are so many more interesting things to think about: weekend plans, that interesting person you met at a party, what you want to do after graduation. Nonetheless, boring information may still be important enough to warrant your attention.

On the flip side, overexcitement can distract you from listening effectively, even if the speaker is saying something you might normally find engaging. If you’re consumed by plans for an upcoming vacation, for instance, you may have difficulty listening to a class lecture.

You can still improve your listening skills in situations in which you’re experiencing boredom or overexcitement. First, become more conscious about the situation. Think about how you would deliver the information being discussed and how you would restructure it or give examples. As you do this, you may find yourself listening more attentively. Second, avoid daydreaming by taking notes. Third, relate information to your own life. To illustrate, if you’re sick of listening to a friend complain for the hundredth time about her problems with a professor, imagine how you’d feel in the same situation. Your interest in your friend’s problem may perk up.