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Running Head: REFLECTION HD 341

Reflection
HD 341
Communication for Empowerment
Maura Maldonado
Pacific Oaks College

Reflection HD 341

HD 341 Communication and Empowerment


The first night of class I wasnt sure what communication for empowerment really meant.
At the end of the evening I understood that my goal for the class was to learn to be a better
communicator. I feel my goal was fulfilled. Through lecture and required readings I learned
many helpful techniques that have helped me become a more effective communicator in my
personal and professional life. This class has taught me that there are many aspects to becoming
a better communicator. For example non-verbal communication is just as important and
effective as verbal communication. Before this class I would say what I thought I meant. I
would hear the response, and if I didnt feel hurt or angry I would continue the conversation. I
realize now that I rarely put any of me into the conversation process. I feel I did this for selfpreservation as well as feelings of self-doubt. The feelings of self- doubt would especially grow
when communication involved criticism or critical people. The small group project I was part of
in this class was on criticism and it was a helpful positive experience. I used to settle for my
place in the conversation. Now I understand the disservice I was giving myself and others.
Another aspect of the communication process I have learned is the importance of
listening; not just hearing what someone is saying but becoming an active listener. Giving
someone your full attention when they are speaking, echoing what they say and asking for
clarification when needed ensures that what you understand is exactly what you heard.
The identification of noise in our head has had a big impact on how I listen to people
and has helped me identify the reactions of others. Often our conversations are impeded by
defenses and having conversations with ourselves when we should be listening. This added
knowledge has helped my ability to help others listen. With this added knowledge I am not
afraid to ask those involved in conversation to try and take a breath and listen without pre-

Reflection HD 341

judgement. This is definitely a work in progress but it has helped me on my end of conversations
which is half the battle. Another way this class has added to my knowledge is the ideas from the
text; Nonviolent Communications, by Marshall B. Rosenberg PhD. For me, the book had a lot of
practical information. The point that resonates with me the most is developing self-compassion
by acknowledging the importance of really looking at myself. Knowing that the positives and
the negatives of my actions in the past or the present and the ability to forgive these actions when
needed, connecting compassionately with myself, this is knowledge well deserved. Although I
may regret some of these decisions they are in the past and I have learned to leave them there.
The ability to look at myself in a not so flattering light and embracing all of who I am helps me
to know what I want and therefore communicate clearly. Looking at myself without fear of who
I am helps me to be conscious of what is motivating my decisions and helps me to consider what
or why I say what I do.
As a listener I feel I have contributed my full support to others in my class. Getting to
know the women in my cohort and listening to them share their life experiences has become a
highlight of my educational journey. As one of the oldest members of my class I feel I have
contributed knowledge, insight and helpful commentary based on experiences that many in my
class have not yet experienced. In group experiences I feel I have contributed by helping to
create a comfortable atmosphere as well as cooperating and completing my part of a project.
I am most appreciative of the support given by all in my class. The hugs, smiles, and
well wishes from this diverse group of women have given me strength that they are not even
aware of. Their intellect and insights on each subject we have talked about in class has helped
me to understand how communication works when listening is done with respect. These
women have contributed to my belief in the affirmation that I am strong, smart and a beautiful

Reflection HD 341

woman who is worth it! The women in my class have reminded me that accepting each others
commonalities and cultural differences is an important aspect in understanding each other.
The renewal of the realization of the importance of diversity and being culturally aware
in order to be a good communicator will continue to stimulate my thinking. This knowledge has
empowered my views in the areas of language, communication and diversity. To clearly
communicate with others, I need to identify in some way with who I am trying to reach. This
means as the communicator I need to be open to changing my ways or methods in order to find a
way to reach a diverse or culturally different audience. The Culture of Power, a term used to
identify a leader or group in charge was a new statement for me but one that I wont forget.
Figuring out who the culture of power is gives an insight to what the atmosphere may be and
may give a clue to how you communicate.
Reflecting on what I have learned about myself I feel that in regular conversation I
engage, I like to talk but I think I hold back. I have always been considered a good listener and
have been comfortable with that role. Reflecting on my writings I have learned that I am more
honest and forthcoming when I communicate through pen and paper. In verbal communication I
used to worry a lot about what people think but I dont worry about that anymore. Surprisingly, I
think learning how to write honestly and concisely has helped me with communicating verbally.
Through my writings I have realized a whole deeper side of myself and I love the feeling of
release writing gives me. I want to achieve this feeling verbally. By practicing what I have
learned about communication, I hope to achieve this.

References

Reflection HD 341

Rosenberg, M. B. (2003). Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life. (2nd ed.).


Puddledancer Press.

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