Rock's research, specifically, reveals that active listening can significantly impact the brain's neural pathways, leading to better communication, improved relationships and increased productivity.

Active listening involves being completely mentally present when someone else is speaking, says Matt Eventoff, the founder of Princeton Public Speaking, an executive communication strategy firm.

Active listening is a skill that can take work, but the results of better conversations and stronger social bonds are worth it. Here are nine tips for how to be a better active listener. 1.

Active listening can help leaders identify employees who are struggling with this issue and take concerted steps to help them feel more connected to a manager and the team at large.

When active listening is absent, a host of consequences can arise and lead to the deterioration of even your closest relationships, whether that’s with your partner, friends, or family.

If we are not listening actively, we are likely to miss the real message. In my experience as a clinician, the ability to use active listening is essential for the long-term happiness of most couples.