In this episode of Champion Reads, Coach Willie Blake and Jon Kovach Jr. dive into Habit 5 from Stephen R. Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood.Too often, we jump into conversations ready to argue our point or defend ourselves. But Covey reminds us that true influence, leadership, and connection don’t come from talking—they come from listening with empathy.💡 Key Ideas Covered:👂 Listening with Empathy, Not Just EarsMost people listen with the intent to reply. Champions listen with the intent to understand. That shift changes the entire dynamic of relationships.💬 You Can’t Influence Without First UnderstandingCovey teaches that when people feel heard, they naturally open up to your perspective. Understanding builds trust—trust creates influence.⚡ Why We Fail at ListeningFrom distractions to ego to impatience, most people struggle with giving others their full attention. Jon and Willie share personal stories of when they failed to listen—and what they learned from it.🛠️ Tools to Practice Habit 5Pause before responding.Repeat back what you hear in your own words.Ask clarifying questions instead of assuming.Focus on their perspective, not your rebuttal.🎤 Why It Hits Different:This habit isn’t just for leaders—it’s for parents, partners, coaches, and friends. Seeking first to understand transforms every conversation, every relationship, and every outcome.🏁 Final Takeaway:Champions don’t rush to be heard—they earn the right to be heard by first listening deeply. Seek understanding, and influence follows.🎧 Subscribe to Champion Reads for more conversations that turn powerful books into action-ready wisdom.🌐 Learn more and join the Champion Circle at: https://www.mychampioncircle.com#ChampionReads #7Habits #SeekFirstToUnderstand #StephenRCovey #Leadership #Empathy #ActiveListening