Review: Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life

Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life by Marshall B. Rosenberg
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4.5 stars!
I may need to revisit some chapters again in future

Reading Nonviolent Communication made me realize how much more I need intentional, mindful non-fiction in my life. This book opened a way of communicating that feels both deeply human and needed. Marshall Rosenberg introduces NVC in a light, compassionate tone, but the content itself carries substantial emotional and psychological depth, which is actually not as easy as it seems because of how we are nowadays.

What struck me most was how much of our daily communication is shaped by our upbringing, environment, and unexamined patterns. We often respond instinctively, based on what we've seen and internalized, without truly processing what we feel or need or what others need and feel from us. Nonviolent Communication presents a practical yet transformative framework: observing without evaluating, identifying and expressing feelings and needs clearly, and making honest, respectful requests.

As I reflected on the four pillars Observation, Feeling, Need, Request I began to see how differently things might have unfolded in my own life had I learned to apply these principles earlier. Chapters on self-forgiveness, self-empathy, and not taking things personally, empathy, anger-management felt especially relevant. They gently revealed some of my own limitations in emotional expression and connection, limitations that may have led to hurt in my relationships, despite the best of intentions.

This book doesn’t paint NVC as a magic fix, nor does it suggest it should be applied in every scenario. Communication can't always be prioritized when survival is at stake. But in everyday interactions, especially emotionally charged ones, Nonviolent Communication offers a compassionate path to connection, clarity, and peace. But the intention matters, without really wanting and emotionally connecting, if one tries to apply NVC as a formula or mechanical tool to cope, it may backfire. The intention plays big role. How much this connection matters, am I really doing it to enrich my life?

What stuck me more was, how important it is to not just overpour the inner thoughts, even if it is via NVC. sometimes, just sit back. Think. Relax. Feel. Put yourself in other's shoe.

I will further share what I learnt from the book via some notes I have saved

It’s not an easy read. It requires inner work and a willingness to confront ourselves. But for those who want to grow in how they relate to others and to themselves it’s a worthwhile journey, though shaky. I now see emotional honesty not as a burden, but as a skill that can be cultivated with courage and care, even if I fail, trying it is worth it if the intention and heart is aligned.

Some notes of the book has really touched me I would gladly share it in my blog in a while if you feel like to visit, you're most welcome.

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