Today I am exploring Lou Holtz' final rule for life. Rule #3 - Show people you care.  This can take any shape or form, from the most simple to the more complex.  Active listening is one of the most sincere forms to show people that you really are there for them.  A lot of times we either have friends or family that want to speak to us about a particular situation or issue.  They usually have the answer to their own question, however, we are enlisted to be that sounding board for them in that moment.  Not interrupting with our opinion or providing our strategy for how to solve their issue, simply listening.  Therapists and counselors are great at this as they usually repeat, exactly what you said and they usually start by using words like, "What I heard you say was".   A caring manager or supervisor also uses the same technique with their subordinates, in order to clarify an issue or  to validate a concern.  You can write a note, cook someone their favorite food, look at people in the eye when you are talking to them, to name a few suggestions.  Remember that it does not have to cost anything to show people that you care and speak from your heart as it will exemplify this attribute even more.