Labeling and diagnosis is a catastrophic way to communicate. Telling other people what's wrong with them greatly reduces, almost to zero, the probability that we're going to get what we're after.
Marshall B. RosenbergRead
However impressed we may be with NVC concepts, it is only through practice and application that our lives are transformed.
Interpretation
Transformation in life comes from applying concepts, not just understanding them.
Marshall B. Rosenberg emphasizes that mere knowledge of Nonviolent Communication (NVC) principles is insufficient for true change. It is through intentional practice and application of these concepts that individuals can experience meaningful transformation in their lives.
In practice
In a workshop on communication skills, this quote can inspire participants to practice what they learn.
Labeling and diagnosis is a catastrophic way to communicate. Telling other people what's wrong with them greatly reduces, almost to zero, the probability that we're going to get what we're after.
Whether I praise or criticize someone's action, I imply that I am their judge, that I'm engaged in rating them or what they have done.
In nonviolent communication, no matter what words others may use to express themselves, we simply listen for their observations, feelings, needs, and requests. Then we may wish to reflect back, paraphrasing what we have understood. We stay with empathy, allowing others the opportunity to fully express themselves before we turn our attention to solutions or requests for relief.
All that has been integrated into NVC has been known for centuries about consciousness, language, communication skills, and use of power that enable us to maintain a perspective of empathy for ourselves and others, even under trying conditions.
The punitive use of force tends to generate hostility and to reinforce resistance to the very behavior we are seeking.
Expressing our vulnerability can help resolve conflicts.
Some ideas are so stupid that only intellectuals believe them.
I may do some good before I am dead--be a sort of success as a frightful example of what not to do; and so illustrate a moral story.
The difference between what we do and what we are capable of doing would suffice to solve most of the world's problems.
The best way to have a good idea is to have a lot of ideas.
Perfection does not come from belief or faith. Talk does not count for anything. Parrots can do that. Perfection comes through the disinterested performance of action.
Earnest in practicing the ordinary virtues, and careful in speaking about them, if, in his practice, he has anything defective, the superior man dares not but exert himself; and if, in his words, he has any excess, he dares not allow himself such license.
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