It may seem obvious, but even the most attentive and empathetic person is going to struggle to listen to you if they’re being mauled by a lion or haven’t eaten in two weeks. What might it look like to not be physically ready to listen?
• Being too hungry, tired, grumpy, inebriated, hot, cold, uncomfortable, or ill to pay proper attention
• Being stressed, rushed, or busy with something else
• Being too emotionally aggravated to be fully present—e.g., overly angry, sad, or scared
Physical preparedness may simply come down to making sure that the chair is comfortable, nobody is thirsty, and you’re not attempting a conversation at 11 p.m. when everyone is fatigued and unable to manage a full-blown discussion about something important.