We need empathy to give empathy.

Intellectual understanding blocks empathy.

NVC enhances inner communication by helping us translate negative internal messages into feelings and needs. Our ability to distinguish our own feelings and needs and to empathize with them can free us from depression.

Anger is a signal that you're distracted by judgmental or punitive thinking, and that some precious need of yours is being ignored.

Never hear what somebody thinks about you, you'll live longer. Hear that they're in pain. Don't hear their analysis.

NVC self-forgiveness: connecting with the need we were trying to meet when we took the action that we now regret.

I try never to hear what another person thinks of me. I enjoy life a lot more when I spend as little time as possible hearing or thinking about what other people think about me. I go to the needs behind the thoughts. Then I'm in a different world.