The Art of Actually Listening: A Guide for Husbands

Yes, gentlemen, there's more to listening than nodding while thinking about sports or work. Here's how to actually engage in conversation with your partner.

Common Mistakes

1. The Phone Scroll: Just because you can see her in your peripheral vision doesn't mean you're listening.

2. The "Uh-huh" Technique: Randomly saying "uh-huh" while thinking about something else isn't fooling anyone.

How to Actually Listen

1. Put Down the Phone: Yes, all the way down. Face down. Maybe even in another room.

2. Ask Follow-up Questions: Show you're engaged by asking questions that prove you were listening.

Advanced Techniques

1. Remember Details: Write down important things she mentions (future gift ideas, upcoming events, etc.)

2. Body Language: Face her when she's talking. No, watching TV over her shoulder doesn't count.