Skyros Blog

The basics of Co-listening…

This Skyros tradition involves meeting with a partner once a day for a period agreed upon between the two partners. Each partner is given an equal amount of time to talk while the other listens, and to listen while the other talks. This is a completely safe and powerful way of working together, as long as the basic rules are followed.

The benefits of Co-listening...

• By opening up to ‘real talk’, and ‘real listening’, you are opening up to your creative ability to work through a situation.
• The effect of Co-listening also spreads to the possibility of ‘real talk’ in the wider community.
• You can take Co-listening home with you. Some people have carried on co-listening in their own towns, sometimes with their original partner or with others. In some cases, it has helped to transform marriages where partners have stopped talking to each other.

The principles of Co-listening…

• Choose a partner you feel comfortable with.
• Each partner must have equal time, usually about 10 minutes for talking and 4 minutes for feedback.
• Keep approval statements or sounds to a minimum, and be aware of giving the other your full attention.
• Whatever is said is completely confidential.
• When giving feedback, clarify and reflect back what has been said. Try not to interpret, give advice or approve or disapprove with what has been said.