What percentage of communication is considered to involve active listening?

Active listening is a critical component of effective communication, involving attentiveness to the speaker and understanding their message. Research indicates that a significant portion of communication is centered around listening skills, with some studies suggesting that active listening accounts for around 50% of our communication efforts. This percentage reflects the importance of not just hearing what is said, but also fully engaging with the speaker by interpreting non-verbal cues, providing feedback, and demonstrating empathy. While active listening certainly plays a significant role, it's crucial to recognize that communication is a multifaceted process that includes speaking, non-verbal communication, and contextual understanding. The percentage of 50% highlights the balance between listening and other forms of communication, emphasizing the idea that to communicate effectively, one must be as much a listener as a speaker.