As a translator, I need to read carefully. As an interpreter, it is my responsibility to listen with attention to detail.
It is not just listening or reading in a relaxed way, just so the conversation can go on or so I can turn the page in a book. It is more than that. It is paying attention to the details, being an active recipient of the message.
When I was younger, my family would ask me if I was really listening when I zoned out. That is so easy to do! You start thinking of how you will answer something, you get stuck on the question or comment you want to wait, and you don’t hear anything that comes after the place where you got stuck.
When a presentation is boring, you zone out and start thinking of your kids, playing a game on your phone, whatever.
What helps me receive the content fully?
When I am listening:
- Knitting.
- Doodling.
- Taking notes. These are quirky notes just for myself.
When I am reading:
- Slowing down (well… in books by Victor Hugo it is really hard to slow down at all times. Some parts I definitely skim.)
- Underlining, taking notes in the margins, etc.
I don’t do this every time, of course! I often read for recreation, just to browse material, or just need to zone out.
However, when I am having an important conversation, I pay close attention. Conversations with clients, friends, grandkids, are important. I may zone out when it is the third time I have heard the joke, but I tell them that.
