Challenge 

Do not Just React!  Stop and listen to understand what someone is trying to tell you!

We all feel that we win if we are understood.  Once people feel understood, they are often more open to another person's opinion and perspective. 

Feeling understood cultivates a feeling of being respected and valued and encourages effective communication.

Make a point of really listening to what someone is saying - it says something about what they are trying to tell you about themselves.