Non Violent Communication (NVC) for IDG 4th dimension: social skills

@IagoParis

Thank you for your post,

I have not heard of the term NVC; however, I am familiar with what it means: “healthy communication,” which indeed involves active listening and using “I” statements, such as “I feel like you are not listening to me” instead of using extremes like “You never listen to me.” It helps us communicate better with others. When people act defensively in a conversation, it may be because they feel attacked. 

Okay I had no experience with this, but I really think this is going to help me communicate better in real life, because I often end up communicating in a threatening or ultimatum kind of way, which makes the situation worse if not better. I am going to research more on this and try to implement it.

I appreciate how you tied Nonviolent Communication (NVC) into the 4th dimension of the IDG framework: Collaborating – Social Skills, specifically under communication skills. This is such a powerful example of how theory meets practice. NVC is a natural extension of the IDG's emphasis on empathy, presence, and respectful dialogue.

What I find most compelling about NVC is how it helps create psychological safety in relationships. Instead of blaming or reacting, it invites us to slow down, name what’s happening inside us, and connect through needs rather than power dynamics. That shift—from accusation to vulnerability—can truly transform how we relate to others.

I’ve used NVC in emotionally charged situations, and while it takes practice (and sometimes feels awkward at first), it softens conversations. People become less defensive and more open when they realize you’re expressing yourself, not attacking them.

Your example was clear and grounded—I think it’s a great start! Your note about not taking it literally is a good reminder that these are guiding tools, not rigid scripts.

@IagoParis thanks for putting light into this.

@IagoParis

Thank you for sharing this! I did not know about NVC before this post, and it has been so informative that I am going to be researching this topic. I use "I" statements as much as I can when describing myself in a situation, without blame talk. 

@IagoParis. Yes, I’d love that! I think seeing a polished example would help me understand how to use NVC better in real situations. It’s one thing to know the steps, but seeing it in action makes it feel more doable.

@IagoParis that is indeed an interesting framework to explore. I did not know of it beforehand, but it sounds valuable. Talking of needs and emotions as they come up in us, definitely is helpful, if the person on the other side is able to have an emotionally-truthful discussion and handle the conflict in a healthy way. I think it will also help figure out who is a worthwhile person to fix things with and who isn't anyway.
Thanks for sharing!