Although most of us have received years of training on how to read, write and speak, few of us have been taught how to actually listen. Listening can be divided into four categories: Social or casual , to fill our days; Attentive, when we are in a situation we regard as important/when receiving instructions; Empathetic, when we want to feel with the other person and understand/be sympathetic; Active listening, requiring a responsibility on the part of the listener to absorb the meanings of the words he/she hears and then assume an active role in the exchange. -The most crucial method of listening Many are good at some of these categories, others are skilled at one, some are skilled in none. As a society we tend to focus on what we are saying rather than how we listen and apply that knowledge and understanding. Practicing and applying good listening skills can help create and sustain an environment of trust, respect and understanding. Hearing is a function that almost never requires eff