Labeling and diagnosis is a catastrophic way to communicate. Telling other people what's wrong with them greatly reduces, almost to zero, the probability that we're going to get what we're after.
Marshall B. RosenbergRead
It may be most difficult to empathize with those we are closest to.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Empathy can be challenging, especially with those we love and know best.
Marshall B. Rosenberg's quote highlights the complexity of empathy in close relationships. Often, because we have deeper emotional ties and preconceived notions about those we are closest to, it can become difficult to truly understand their feelings and perspectives, leading to misunderstandings and conflict.
Themes
EmpathyRelationshipsUnderstandingClosenessCommunication
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about improving personal relationships, this quote can illustrate the often overlooked challenges of empathy.
More from Marshall B. Rosenberg
All quotes βWhether I praise or criticize someone's action, I imply that I am their judge, that I'm engaged in rating them or what they have done.
Marshall B. RosenbergRead
In nonviolent communication, no matter what words others may use to express themselves, we simply listen for their observations, feelings, needs, and requests. Then we may wish to reflect back, paraphrasing what we have understood. We stay with empathy, allowing others the opportunity to fully express themselves before we turn our attention to solutions or requests for relief.
Marshall B. RosenbergRead
All that has been integrated into NVC has been known for centuries about consciousness, language, communication skills, and use of power that enable us to maintain a perspective of empathy for ourselves and others, even under trying conditions.
Marshall B. RosenbergRead
The punitive use of force tends to generate hostility and to reinforce resistance to the very behavior we are seeking.
Marshall B. RosenbergRead
Expressing our vulnerability can help resolve conflicts.
Marshall B. RosenbergRead
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