On 5 April 2024, the Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS) at the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) held its MindsMatter@FMDS second monthly activity at the Audio-Visual Room, UP Open University, Los Baños, Laguna. The event, titled “Compassionate Communication,” aimed to enhance communication skills among faculty and staff through the principles of empathy and understanding, and was based on the concepts and principles of Nonviolent Communication (NVC) as taught by Dr. Marshall Rosenberg. NVC is a conscious process for cultivating compassionate communication with oneself and others. It involves empathetic communication, conflict resolution, and fostering compassionate connections.

The workshop was attended by FMDS faculty and staff and facilitated by Ms. Erma Tidon, the psychotherapist and wellness consultant for FMDS.  

Ms. Tidon guided the participants through various exercises designed to improve their listening and communication skills. The objective was to equip participants with practical tools and a deeper understanding of NVC, enabling them to communicate empathetically and resolve conflicts effectively. 

Participants were engaged in a series of activities, including:

  • Imagining Different Scenarios: Participants visualized various situations to practice responding with empathy and understanding.
  • Needs Consciousness: Attendees explored their own and others’ needs to foster a deeper understanding of motivations behind actions.
  • Self-Empathy Exercise: Participants practiced self-empathy techniques to connect with their feelings and needs.
  • Iceberg Exercise: This exercise helped attendees identify underlying needs and emotions beneath surface behaviors.
  • Needs Exercise: Participants practiced expressing their needs clearly and without judgment.

Additionally, participants were introduced to key concepts of NVC:

  • Universal Needs: Understanding the basic human needs shared by everyone, such as connection, autonomy, and acceptance.
  • Universal Feelings: Recognizing common emotions that arise when needs are met or unmet.
  • Giraffe Language and Jackal Language: Learning to use “Giraffe Language” (compassionate and non-judgmental communication) versus “Jackal Language” (blaming and critical communication).

These activities and concepts highlighted the significance of empathy, active listening, and non-judgmental responses in fostering better interpersonal relationships. The workshop provided a platform for FMDS faculty and staff to explore new ways of connecting, both professionally and personally. Attendees shared their experiences and insights, contributing to a lively and enriching discussion.

The MindsMatter@FMDS program, relaunched in March 2024, aims to comprehensively address health and wellness concerns among FMDS faculty and staff. By offering access to a holistic support system and promoting wellness activities, the program hopes to create a supportive environment where individuals can thrive. 

Written by: Dona Lyn Piamonte • Edited by: Larry N. Cruz

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