This podcast discusses resources written by Angela Fernandes de Carvalho, researcher, linguist and psychologist. She often writes on Christian perspectives for a healthier life-style.

The Importance of Self-Assessment for Effective Communication Amid Differences

In contexts of disagreement, self-assessment plays a crucial role in developing effective communication skills. Sources propose a test divided into three main points: attitude, language, and objective, demonstrating how introspection into each of these elements can enhance dialogue.

**Attitude:**

* The first step towards effective communication in situations of divergence is to analyze your own attitude during the dialogue.

* Ask yourself: Do you tend to close yourself off and defend yourself, dismissing the other person's opinion? Or do you seek to understand the opposing viewpoint, prioritizing love and compassion?

* Adopting a defensive and dismissive posture hinders constructive dialogue and generates resistance.

* Prioritizing love, compassion, and humility, recognizing that you do not have all the answers, makes you more receptive to dialogue and facilitates bridge-building.

**Language:**

* The language used reveals your attitude during the dialogue.

* It is crucial to analyze whether the words used are attacks or judgments, if the arguments are based on emotions or inflexible dogmas, or if the language is respectful, constructive, and acknowledges the humanity of the other.

* Harsh words and judgments create a climate of hostility and defense, while respectful and constructive language, which acknowledges the value of the other, opens space for mutual understanding.

* Nonviolent Communication (NVC), a secular method aligned with biblical principles, proposes clear expression of feelings and needs without blaming or attacking the other.

**Objective:**

* Reflecting on the conversation's objective is essential for healthy communication.

* Is the objective to "win" the debate and prove that you are right? Or is the objective to convince the other to change their opinion?

* Seeking mutual understanding, a fair solution, bridge-building, and strengthening the relationship are objectives that promote healthy dialogue.

* Secular techniques such as active listening, empathy, and consensus-building can assist in seeking solutions that meet the needs of all involved.

In summary, critical and honest self-assessment, considering attitude, language, and objective, is fundamental for developing effective communication skills in contexts of differences. By integrating biblical principles with secular communication techniques, a more empathetic, transformative dialogue focused on bridge-building and promoting healthier relationships is created.