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 more connected we feel, the more meaning and happiness we’re likely to experience.
We need each other. We know it. Yet all too often, conflicts get in the way of us achieving 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 become reactive. 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 conflict? If you could process difficult feelings without isolating or shaming yourself? If you could meet yourself and others with dignity and compassion instead of judgment and blame?
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 from January 16 - March 13, with the exception of Wednesday February 13 (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 embody nonviolence. 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 $395.
If finances pose a significant barrier to participating, please reach out to Erin to explore creative alternatives for work exchange or inquire about a scholarship.
NOTE: This series is limited to 20 participants, on a first come first served basis. Register and send payment early to guarantee your spot!