During my workshops I play music and eventually the playlist gets to Rupert Holmes. Interestingly, most people start to hum or sing along to the Pina Colada Song.
Inevitably the following conversation can be over heard.
Person 1: “this is such a fun song.”
Person 2: “I know! It’s hard to believe it’s about having an affair.”
Person 1: “Whaaaaaaaat? Nooooooooo?”
Me: “yup”
Person 1: “Play it again so I can listen.”
It’s funny. Many people hear the music and the lyrics, they even sing along. Yet they’re actually not listening to the words.
They are hearing but not listening.
What’s the difference?
According to Merriam-Webster the difference is:
Hearing is the “process, function, or power of perceiving sound.”
Listening, on the other hand, means “to pay attention to sound; to hear something with thoughtful attention; and to give consideration.”
Hmmmm, thoughtful attention and giving consideration sounds like our best leaders, doesn’t it?