Abstract
In this essay we will look at how to gain perspective on listening ability by identifying strengths and weaknesses through self-assessment and peer-assessment, as well as considering obstacles to good listening. In later essays, we will discuss active listening skills, which include listener response types and their usage. Subsequently, we will turn to passive skills, examine the consciousness of listeners as a primary tool for listening, acknowledge the difficulties in applying empathic listening in the legal profession and develop ways to overcome them. While discovering and acknowledging your level of listening ability is significant, it is just as important to seek out the thoughts of those affected by your skills. Seeking an honest evaluation of your listening ability from others provides a fuller picture of how well you listen. Ask trustworthy peers to offer an account of how well they think you listen, and where your strengths and weaknesses lie. Inquire the thoughts of family and friends who may see a different side of your listening ability. By synthesizing these accounts, you can see where your listening ability stands, and what you need to improve. Acknowledging the importance of listening, identifying strengths and weaknesses in listening ability and recognizing the obstacles to good listening are the first crucial steps in improving listening skills. These provide the groundwork for building and maintaining listening skills with practical use in the legal profession.