Restorative Communication

Restorative communication is a way to repair relationships that have been damaged by conflict, and prevent future conflicts from arising. By making simple changes in our language, we can experience dramatic shifts in our results.

Core Concepts

Here are the Core Concepts of Restorative Practices:

• How we feel is important. Our emotional state has enormous impact on our ability to be productive, experience enjoyment and satisfaction, and make positive connections with others.
• There are many ways that conflict shows up, but they all share an underlying structure. Conflict arises when someone does or says something that we find harmful, and we want them to stop or change their behavior.
• When we want someone to change their behavior, we usually use threats, fear, or punishment to get them to change. “If you show up late again, you’re fired.”
• Using Restorative Communication, by clearly expressing our needs and offering the space for others to do the same, we can create change through building greater connection, compassion, and collaboration. “What can I do to support you in being prepared and on time for the meeting tomorrow?”

PRACTICE L.F.O.A.

Think of a specific event that occurred recently. Describe the exact behavior you would like to see changed.

• What are some of the emotions you felt as a result of this happening?
• What do you think the other person is feeling, and why?
• Is there something you can offer to do for this person to help get their

needs met in a different way?

• What specifically would you like them to do differently? Write down

the S.M.A.R.T. alternate action that you would like them to take.

Examples

Downloads

The above text is from the Global Kindness Initiative guides. Download them for yourself here:

• Global Kindness Initiative Restorative Communication Guide PDF