What'd you say?

And write.

We all have our own perception, influenced by our education and experience. We can change our perception when we have new experience or education.

I like to think I’m better at listening than that, and, at the moment, my partner is quite good at hearing me too. Long may it continue!

True, But Sometimes it can be the opposite!
Called "the Curse of Knowledge" ; When you assume others know what you know and all have the same understanding. Which leading to unclear communication.

That is Exactly why I feel free to give advice, I Know you are only going to hear what you want to hear...every time!
Then when you f*ck up, I can happily say I told you so...Such a win-win for me......

That is why in counseling the listener is required to repeat back what they just heard. The old "telephone" game whereby one whispers in their neighbors ear & so on around the circle. The outcome is usually different than the original statement.

Throw in cultural nuance and you have the mixing of verbal dino-mite

Or so I have heard!