Listening as a skill

I came across a quote that framed listening as a skill.

I love that idea - that you can become a better listener the same way you become better at other skills, with deliberate practice.

The quotes explains a main tenet of being a skilled listener: the ability to hold in your mind all the agitation caused by the information coming at you. Hold it and remain calm.

It's tough.

This weekend I am seeing many old friends and meeting new people. Seems like a great opportunity to practice.