I recently had an argument with one of my sisters and it quickly became a shouting match. I wish I could go back and use some of the communication skills I have acquired. Before the conversation turned into argument, I could have been more responsive and in tune to the conversation I would have been more sensitive to the underlying problem at hand. A little cooperation and compromise would have put a halt to the argument almost immediately. It dawned on me that neither of us was willing to budge and that caused a problem in communication. I could have definitely used the 3 r’s and been respectful, reciprocal, and responsive.
We can not change the past, however we can make the future better. With the skills that we are learning, the next time we have an argument, ameybe will be remember to use the skills that we have learned to keep the problem under control without hurting those that we love and care for
ReplyDeleteChristine,
ReplyDeleteThat is why I say this process of nonviolent communication and Gerber's 3R's is for sure a learning and growing experience. I think we have to intentionally do this type of communication, until it become natural. It's a journey.
Hi Christine,
ReplyDeleteDoesn't it always seem as though we think of what to say or another way to handle a situation better after the fact?! I agree with Gloria and Lori that even though we can't go back at least we can learn and grow from what just happened. Now you have better ideas on how to handle a future situation like this. It's always hard to think of the right thing to do in the moment, especially if we are emotional, but remembering to use these skills can help us stay cool and handle situations like these more effectively!
Christine,
ReplyDeleteDon't blame youself for not practicing the conflict resolution strategies. Disputes between siblings can be Inevitable in the family . If you don't have arguments with family members then the issues are being avoided all the time . What matters is how you resolve the arguments. I do argue with my sisters and I would shut down for hours , but later I would say sorry . If you need to apologise please do that .