Integrating Non-Violent Communication in Conscious Leadership

Have you ever disagreed with your subordinates or your leader? Surely, this is a common event in the workplace. However, if not properly communicated, these disagreements can escalate into harmful conflicts. Feedback, which is meant to be constructive, can be misinterpreted as destructive criticism. Similarly, discussions, which should be a platform for exchanging ideas, can turn into prolonged debates.

To avoid such situations, clear and constructive communication is crucial. One effective method for achieving this goal is non-violent communication, pioneered by Dr. Marshall Rosenberg, PhD. Non-violent communication emphasizes consciousness, responsibility, and empathy in communication. Its goal is to build high-quality relationships that enable the achievement of common goals.

Practicing non-violent communication can be done through the following steps:

1. Observation / Conscious Recap 

What you see or hear can be identified as the stimulus for your reactions. So, the initial step of non-violent communication is to observe and note what is happening. Observations are often mistaken with interpretations, leading to judgmental reactions. The aim of observation itself is to react concretely, specifically, and neutrally without judgments.

2. Feelings

Choosing the right words to articulate your feelings and being able to express them clearly will enhance your connection with others. When expressing your feelings, use words that truly reflect your feelings – not opinions about others or yourself.

3. Needs 

Recognizing your own needs can improve your relationship with yourself and help you understand others better, ensuring that what you do aligns with what others need. Failure to understand these needs can lead to a source of conflict. Write down the underlying needs of your feelings. Conflict usually happens when our needs are unfulfilled, failure to pinpoint and communicate clearly our needs will hinder us from reaching a common goal.

4. Requests 

Expressing requests is necessary to get what you need. The final step is to communicate your requests clearly and accurately. Identify and express a specific action that you believe is appropriate, considering the feelings and needs of others.

Non-violent communication is one of the essential elements of conscious leadership. Leaders who practice non-violent communication can lead team their teams effectively and foster a positive working culture while also prioritizing effective and respectful communication. 

Benefits of integrating non-violent communication into conscious leadership:

1. Helps constructive conflict resolution within the team. Non-violent communication practices focus on feelings and needs, enabling conscious leaders to find solutions that satisfy all parties involved. 
2. Supports leaders to foster a collaborative working environment with open and honest communication, allowing team members to share their perspectives and ideas freely. 
3. Contributes to improved decision-making by ensuring that the opinions and perspectives of all team members are considered. 
4. Improves self-awareness. Non-violent communication places a strong emphasis on self-reflection to understand one’s own needs and triggers. This enables conscious leaders to identify their strengths and limitations, leading to more authentic leadership.

You may need assistance in implementing the practice of non-violent communication in conscious leadership for the leaders in your company. mnd-hub, a human resources consultant with over 15 years of expert experience, offers Development services to develop employee potential and competencies to increase performance and productivity. Contact mnd-hub via email at admin@mnd-hub.com or fill out the following form to speak with our HR experts today!