Ears or mouth...?

I try to listen. Often I do try to rephrase what I think they said back to them, to verify that I accurately received what they sent.

But certainly there are times when I get a bit stuck in my own message. I'm only human.

I'm actually really conscious of this. And though I try to be a good listener, I think I end up talking more. I'm selfish that way, and it's something I've been trying really hard with.

Great question, though.

There was a Native American tribe. I don't recall which, but when two people where conversing, it would often take longer than most other people.
The reason it took long, is because after someone said something, they would then have quiet time. Time where both would sit thinking about what was just said. Then after a few minutes, the other would contribute too.
I always thought this was attractive. Though I don't think it necessary to sit for a few minutes, I try to do this today. When I am driving with someone or just sitting and talking, after they tell a story or say something, I often sit and reflect on what they just told me. You can always tell who's a talker and a listener.
What I really hate is when people ask you a question and then don't really listen to the answer.
They tell a story about themselves and end it with a question. (only to make you feel like part of the conversation.) You answer, and they say "uh-huh" but you can tell they aren't really listening because they do not ask you to elaborate. They come right back at you with another story about themselves or, sometimes, will even interrupt you and go into something else.