Free Seminar: Compassionate Communication Introduction/Practi­ce Gathering

FRANK (BIG KAHUNA) THE ADMIN: This class from when it has been posted before this has gotten major praise from our members, it's worth doing.

Free Seminar: Compassionate Communication Introduction/Practi­­ce Gathering Please join us as we learn about and practice Compassionate Communication (also known as Non-Violent Communication or NVC) skills in a safe, nonjudgmental and open environment. Compassionate Communication is a communication process that allows individuals to connect by understanding feelings and unmet needs that underlie behavior. The emphasis in this approach is on empathy and connection through compassion; the method to learn the skills involves concrete activities and practice.

This coming Saturday, we will cover the topic "The Hidden Needs Beneath Our Judgments." Some words from Dave about what to expect:

Have you ever caught yourself judging someone else? I certainly have. Little thoughts come up during moments in traffic as my mind replays the day: "that customer is so ignorant!" or "my boss is so elitist and out of touch" or "I can't believe my Mom would say that in a text message to me at work-- she only ever thinks of herself."

When I catch myself doing this, and at least partially regretting it, I can easily fall into some common traps. I can defend myself (Yeah, he is ignorant, nothing wrong with saying so!). Or I can blame myself (I'm such a judgmental jerk! What a hypocrite I am-- will I ever learn?). What both of these traps obscure is that there was a hidden need that I was trying to meet by having those judgmental thoughts in the first place. Maybe my need is for empathy, someone to understand how frustrating my situation really is? Maybe it is for efficiency with something that isn't working well for me? Or perhaps I'm wanting recognition from others for my contributions?

Whatever the need is, really getting in touch with it is a game-changer for transforming our judgments. When we stop trying to attach negative trait labels to each other and instead focus on what each person is needing, the opportunities for cooperation can suddenly come into view.

If you've ever caught yourself judging someone else, join us this Saturday to explore new ways to see these types of situations

-Dave Carlton

Meeting Room 4, Homewood Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh
7101 Hamilton Avenue Pittsburgh PA 15208
location website

every first Saturday of the month (upcoming dates: 2/2, 3/2, 4/6)

open to everyone interested in learning and practicing Non-Violent Communication skills

To learn more about the gathering's facilitators, see the "Meet Us" page of the Compassionate Pittsburgh website. This month's gatherings will be led by Dave Carlton.