Marshall Rosenberg

Nonviolent Communication

1. IDEA 1

   Communication can be compassionate

   Rosenberg argues that much conflict comes from the way people speak, using judgement, blame and demands. He offers nonviolent communication, a method for expressing ourselves honestly and listening with empathy.

2. IDEA 2

   Observe without judging

   The first step is to describe what you observe without adding evaluation. Saying you arrived after nine o'clock is different from saying you are always late. Plain facts are easier for the other person to hear without feeling attacked.

3. IDEA 3

   Name your feelings

   The second step is to express how you feel, using words for emotions rather than thoughts about others. Feelings are clearer than accusations. Saying you feel hurt invites understanding, while calling someone rude usually invites a fight.

All 8 ideas from Nonviolent Communication →