One of the greatest gifts you can give someone facing a tough time is a willingness to listen. And yet listening doesn't come easy. Listening is a skill, just like speaking and writing, and like any skill, you need to practice; the more you practice, the better you become.

We each have the power to give this all important gift – our time and attention. Here are seven strategies to help you become a better listener:

1. Choose a private and comfortable place to talk.
2. Disregard your own feelings and thoughts and focus solely on the speaker.
3. Look directly at the speaker.
4. Avoid interruptions and don't talk.
5. Demonstrate warmth in your voice and your facial expressions.
6. Change position if you find your mind wandering or feel you are slipping away.
7. Stay calm and be patient.