The best way I can get understanding from another person is to give this person the understanding, too. If I want them to hear my needs and feelings, I first need to empathize.

Always hear the 'Yes' in the 'No'.

Empathy: Emptying our mind and listening with our whole being

I find that my cultural conditioning leads me to focus attention on places where I am unlikely to get what I want. I developed NVC as a way to train my attention-to shine the light of consciousness-on places that have the potential to yield what I am seeking.

Imagine connecting with the human spirit in each person in any situation at any time. Imagine interacting with others in a way that allows everyone's need to be equally valued. Imagine creating organizations and life-serving systems responsive to our needs and the needs of our environment.

When it comes to giving advice, never do so unless you've first received a request in writing, signed by a lawyer.

Analyses of others are actually expressions of our own needs and values