“Before we can offer advice, suggest solutions, or effectively interact with another person in any way, we must seek to deeply understand them and their perspective through empathetic listening”
 
This is one of the 7 Habits of Effective People” as per Stephen Covey.  
 
Until I saw this in writing it was something that I thought I was doing.  BUT, not always.  What struck me the most is that this habit should be incorporated in all conversations that we have whether at work or not.  I find I am much more courteous and empathetic to my co-workers than I am with my own family.  My challenge to myself is to consciously be aware of this habit in all interactions I have. My guess is that the understanding I have for other people and their ideas and opinions will greatly increase.