Having Fun with Requests

Betty

Learning to use Language of Compassion has helped me become braver in my dealings with loved ones, acquaintances, and strangers.

It has given me tools for communicating my needs and making requests in a non-threatening way to others, and I love the structure it offers for clarifying ideas and self expression: Observations without evaluations, Feelings, Needs, and Requests.

I often use the Language of Compassion request, “Would you be willing to . . .” when making requests of businesses, medical caregivers, family members, friends, and others.

This same form of request has also made it possible to communicate better with potential male suitors, and I find myself saying, for example, “We’ve been texting for a while and I am comfortable with that. However, I have a need for oral communication. Would you be willing to call me?”

In the past, I might have felt uncomfortable making a request and would let the opportunity to do so pass, but by using Language of Compassion, I’m giving others the chance to be authentic. They can answer either “yes” or “no” to my question. We are now in a position of equality, and I don’t feel that I am pleading with them.

So far, this request has always gotten the results I was after. For that, I am both grateful and elated.

Celebrations: