Seek first to understand then to be understood

I love this principle. It is my favorite of all the habits thus far. I love the idea of understanding someone before they can understand you. I think it is genuine and helps people know you care. I love how not listening is referred to as a "disease", because it is just that. It can consume us, and make so focused on ourselves that anything that anyone has to say means nothing. Are we really that good to do that. I think not. I want to become a better listener as well as a better friend. I believe that this habit will help me acheive both of those things.