Noise is an external obstacle that
creates barrier to mindful listening. External obstacle such as noise cannot be
controlled but can definitely be minimized by creating awareness about the
source. We encounter noise in communication
mainly in public places. The book gives
example of a stadium where the audience is full spirited and noisy so much so
that we cannot hear even the person next to us. Similarly technology can turn
out to be noisy in closed space like an office, classroom or library. Ringing
of phone, people talking on phone, ringing of the doorbell, people talking
loudly around us, children crying or yelling, loud volume of radio, TV or
computer can also create noise disturbance in our work at home or in the
office. Some of these noises can be avoided but some cannot. However, being
aware of the surrounding, selecting the time, and venue in consideration to the
noise restrictions, not paying attention to the disturbance and minimizing the
impact of noise wherever we can, will help overcome the disturbance created by
external known and unknown sources.
This present time, we encounter more noise than we used to back in my father’s days. The advent of technology has made it easier to create devices that produce a lot of noise than our normal ears can handle. Yeah, like the book highlighted about some sources you could encounter noise, like walking by the stadium, or a shopping mall. All this noise is so distracting, especially, when you are around such terrain involving in a conversation. I was invited to a Pilipino party, and in that place, everyone was talking, so I asked my friend, was it cultural and he said yes it was.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your response this week Suchitra. Noise can be a distraction in day to day communication. On our way to work or school the radio prevents us from hearing our own thoughts and the TV at home prevents effective communication between family members. Knowing when and what kind of noise is impeding on our conversation is important especially when we are communicating something important. The chapter says that we can often postpone our conversation to avoid the interruptions that noise can cause. However, I think that this is not always possible because of how fast paced our lives can be. Sometimes working through the noise is the only option.
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