Barriers to effective listening can be external or internal. External roadblocks can include multitasking distracters such as text messages, email, social media, or a setting with too many distractions. Try to be aware of external roadblocks and offset them if possible.

Internal roadblocks include conditions or reactions within the speaker or audience, such as:

• Emotional interference or defensiveness.
• Hearing only facts and not feelings.
• Hearing what is expected instead of what is said.
• Not seeking clarification.
• Stereotyping.
• Resistance to change or automatic dismissal (e.g., “We’ve never done it that way before.”).