One way we each can create loving friendships is by giving the gifts of listening hospitality. When we love a person to the degree that they can truly be themselves without the burdens of perfectionism, we encourage the mutual gift of friendship. This attitude of listening with others also allows us the opportunity to build a strong, positive and loving friendship with ourselves.

One foundation of Wellness Psychology is believing that listening is loving. Some key aspects of developing a behavior and attitude pattern of listening to self and others include the following:

• Listening is a gift that allows another to take what is inside them and bring it out in the open to be seen and understood more fully in a loving, non-judgemental atmosphere.
• Understanding that each of us has a different view of ourselves and our world, we can be loving by listening carefully to ourselves and each other.

One foundation of Wellness Psychology is believing that listening is loving. Some key aspects of developing a behavior and attitude pattern of listening to self and others include the following:

• One skill is the ability to ask myself whether I can tell someone what they have just said. Was I truly listening to the degree that I really heard the words, saw the non-verbal language, felt the voice inflections and deeper feelings, able to put aside my own thoughts and feelings while seeking understanding, etc.?
• Dr. Hughey's personal guideline for interacting with others: I am here to assist you with whatever you need to do for yourself.
• We like people who care to listen to us. Active listening takes energy and effort. It is far more than not talking.
• Even though our society values the powers that come from speaking, giving the rare gift of listening hospitality to another is a rare and valuable way of conveying our love.
• Most people like to talk about themselves first, then about their opinions/beliefs followed by talking about other people and last on their preferences is talking about you.