Final answer:
The key element of good listening habits is staying engaged and attentive, which involves active participation, maintaining eye contact, and observing speakers' non-verbal cues without interruptions or daydreaming.
Step-by-step explanation:
The key element of good listening habits related to focusing attention is C) Staying engaged and attentive. Good listeners demonstrate their engagement by participating actively in discussions, asking clarifying questions, and showing interest in the conversation. Such behaviors illustrate a listener's commitment to understanding the speaker's perspective without distractions or interruptions.
Further aspects of good listening include paying attention to the speaker's emotions and non-verbal cues, such as tone, body gestures, and facial expressions. Maintaining eye contact and being mindful of the speaker's body language are also crucial for effective listening. These actions allow the listener to infer the speaker's emotional state and level of frankness, enhancing the quality of the interaction.
To be a good listener, one must avoid habits that undermine the listening process. This includes avoiding frequent interruptions, daydreaming, and ignoring the speaker, all of which are detrimental to building rapport and understanding.