Relationships are the fabric of our lives. Whether we’re collaborating on a work project, planning an event, or cooking dinner with our family, how we show up in our relationships directly influences the quality of our lives. The better we connect, the more meaning and happiness we experience—and the more resilience we grow to face the inevitable ups and downs of life.
Life can be hard. We need each other, and we know it. Yet all too often, our reactions and defenses get in the way of us experiencing what we truly want together. Rather than demonstrating curiosity toward differing perspectives, we blame each other and disconnect. Rather than addressing issues head-on, we tip-toe and sacrifice our authenticity. Rather than truly listening to one another, we armor up, shut down, or play the victim. We’re not doing any of this on purpose—we just lack some of the skills required to communicate well.
How would your life improve if you could stay openhearted through challenge? If you could process difficult experiences with self-compassion, instead of shaming or blaming yourself? If you could meet yourself and others with dignity and respect, instead of judgment and blame? If you could speak your truth with love, and invite the same from others?
Resilient relationships require skillful communication. Listening with an open mind, staying connected through challenge, conveying our opinions, ideas and requests in a way that brings us closer together—these are the skills we must practice if we want to live, love, parent and lead well in our world today.
Like any art, skillful communication takes practice! Join this supportive community of learners to explore the art of Compassionate Communication.
In this series you will gain:
Useful tools to ground yourself and regain balance in stressful or uncomfortable situations
Insight about your personal triggers in communication, and effective ways to work through them
Tools for listening with an open heart—receiving others’ judgments, criticism and blame without reacting or taking it personally
Tools to express yourself in ways that maximize your likelihood of feeling heard, understood and respected
Practice responding with compassion and authenticity in moments of challenge
Concepts that support you to live from a place of courage, empowerment and self-love
Dates & location
We will meet on Wednesday evenings from 7:00-9:00pm at the Phinney Neighborhood Center Lower Building from September 25 - November 20, with the exception of Wednesday October 30 (skip for integration).
Materials
Each week there will be suggested readings from Marshall Rosenberg's book "Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life." Purchasing this book is recommended to enrich your learning though not required. You might also enjoy the Companion Workbook.
Who is it for?
Anyone seeking to build greater self-awareness, deepen their relationships, improve collaboration, enhance their communication skills and experience life in a more empowering way. People of all backgrounds, religions, gender identities and sexual orientations are welcome! No previous experience with NVC necessary.
What to bring?
Bring your curiosity, willingness to engage, and the intention to be vulnerable, stretch and grow in community! You might also enjoy having a notebook and pen.
Investment
The tuition for this 8-week series is $497.
If finances pose a barrier to participating, please reach out to Erin.
NOTE: This series is limited to 20 participants, on a first come first serve basis. Register and send payment early to guarantee your spot!