27 Filters Both listeners and speakers have mental filters that help or hinder the interpreting process. These filters are in our brain's personal database, and they attach our own meaning to the information we receive. Therefore, be aware of your filters, so that you control your own perceptions while listening. Some examples of our personal filters include the following. Can you add others? memories assumptions expectations current attention span values feelings language and vocabulary age attitudes biases, such as political affiliation or religion emotional hot-buttons past experiences knowledge and intelligence self-esteem needs and motives sensory acuity