Listening actively focuses your attention on others so that you can accurately hear his or her thoughts, feelings, and needs. Active listening involves three steps. First, prepare yourself by becoming aware of your own thoughts, feelings, and needs. Second, listen by giving your full attention to others. Listen to his or her way of viewing the situation, feelings, and needs. If you are not clear about any of these three elements, ask others for more information. For example, “I’m not clear about how to see the problem. Would you be a little more specific about it?” Or “How do you feel about this?” Thirdly, acknowledge the others comments by using reflective listening. For example, “If I hear you right, you’re saying that you don’t want to go to another action film tonight because you prefer romantic comedies and you’re feeling like we need more balance in our life. Is that what you’re telling me?”