Is Nonviolent Communication Possible?

Nonviolent communication is possible, but many people are not aware of it. Many of us have not learned to communicate properly in time. Some people may even reveal the worst in each of us.

So why are we kind and compassionate to some people, but rude and violent to others? Psychologist Marshall B. Rosenberg researched these questions and developed something called nonviolent communication.

This type of communication, also known as empathic communication, is mainly based on giving from the heart. It is a message that is not based on comparisons, insults or negative elements. In fact, the opposite is true – positive feelings, assertiveness, respect and compassion.

Often, people are unable to identify certain signs that indicate poor communication. The signs are negative and full of destructive criticism, denial and lack of reflection. Therefore, they lead to disputes, conflicts, attacks and defense.

In today’s article, we will discuss how to identify these messages and how we can put nonviolent communication into practice.

Nonviolent communication: description

Good manners and nonviolent communication

Although it is not possible to always be in a friendly meditative state, there are issues that certainly cannot and should not be negotiated. These include common kindness, a fundamental pillar that everyone should support in their relationships with others.

In fact, in 2015, the Argentine Ministry of Social Development participated in the seminar “Audiovisual, Transmediality and Education in the 21st Century”, to promote the inclusion of the word buentrato (good treatment) in the official dictionary.

Marisa Graham detailed the vicissitudes of the construction of this word, which does not exist in the dictionary, unlike the word maltrato (mistreatment). She explained:

Secrets of nonviolent communication

There must be adequate information to communicate effectively. Thus, we must do everything possible to avoid comparisons. These are often wrong, not to mention injustice.

As you can see, it is important to get rid of judgments, expectations and evaluations. Indeed, it is not easy, but you can do it if you try hard enough. You will see that you will begin to communicate what you think, without others feeling attacked or offended.

Taking responsibility (unless you sanction yourself unnecessarily) is an essential step. We often blame others for what happens to us or for the way we feel. Yes, we are bothered by many things, but we are responsible for the way we react and the attitude we adopt.

Empathy is a fundamental part of nonviolent communication, as mentioned above. It’s all about learning to put yourself in the other person’s shoes and see things from their perspective. This will make it easier to understand the reactions of those around you. We can all be assertive while respecting others as well as ourselves.

As you can see, it is not easy to practice non-violent communication. We have so many harmful communication practices deeply rooted in us. It is important to be aware of how we communicate and to reflect on the things we want to change. Anyone can do it if they have enough patience.