“I am lonely will anyone speak to me.”

Those words were anonymously posted in a chat room at a time when the internet was just gaining popularity. Author Kate Murphy uses this story to share something surprising: the person who made that post didn’t ask for someone to talk to; he asked for the opportunity to listen.

When was the last time you felt like someone really listened to you? It’s such an important act, one that many of us take for granted. To give someone the gift of listening can build bonds and strengthen relationships–it can even repair past hurts and spur success in your professional life.

I learned so much from this book. Lessons to be a better listener and tips to teach me why it matters when you have someone who listens in return. You’re Not Listening is an important book, one that I would recommend to everyone.