Top 10 Simple Steps to Become a Better Listener

And Why It Matters So Much

By: Izla Fenwick

Narrated by: Jeannine Stone

In today’s world of constant pings, never-ending feeds, and conversations that are often more performance than presence, truly listening to someone is becoming a lost art. We’re quicker to respond than to reflect, to give advice than to ask questions, to fill silence rather than let someone breathe. Yet at the heart of every meaningful relationship—whether personal or professional—is one simple, powerful skill: listening.

This insightful and practical book offers a compassionate, no-fluff guide to becoming a better listener—starting right now. Whether you want to strengthen your relationships, support your loved ones, lead with empathy, or simply connect more authentically, this book gives you ten clear, actionable steps to transform the way you listen.

Drawing on principles from psychology, communication theory, and everyday lived experience, Top 10 Simple Steps to Become a Better Listener breaks down the habits that block true listening—and offers small shifts that make a big difference. Each chapter addresses a core principle, from removing distractions and resisting the urge to interrupt, to developing empathy, reading body language, and embracing silence. You’ll discover how to shift your mindset from “waiting to talk” to “wanting to understand”—and why that change alone can radically improve the quality of your conversations.

You’ll learn:

• Why putting your phone down is one of the most generous things you can do for someone
• How to ask clarifying questions without sounding like a therapist
• What reflective listening sounds like in real-life dialogue
• When advice is helpful—and when it’s really not
• How empathy is heard just as much as it’s felt
• Why silence is not awkward—it’s respectful
• How to build your listening "muscle" through daily practice

©2025 Deep Vision Media t/a Zentara UK (P)2025 Deep Vision Media t/a Zentara UK

14. More Than Just a Self Help Book

This is a guide to becoming a better human being. Listening is such an undervalued skill, and this book treats it with the importance it deserves.

Helped Me Connect Authentically

I used to dread conversations because I didn’t know how to really engage. Now I feel more confident just being present and truly listening

A Gift I’ll Be Giving Often

I’ve already recommended this book to my colleagues and friends. It’s the kind of wisdom that makes everyone’s life better quietly, gently, powerfully

Listening as Leadership

Leaders who don’t listen lose trust, and this audiobook demonstrates why. The sections on empathy and timing advice were especially useful for me in a management role. Stone’s narration delivers authority with kindness, making the lessons stick. I wish I had this book years ago.

My Daily Conversation Manual

I keep revisiting this book. It’s become a daily reminder to stay mindful, curious, and open when I talk with others.