---
title: "\"Relationship Reset\" micro-lesson #4 - Center for Nonviolent Communication"
description: ""
url: "https://www.cnvc.org/news/lesson-4-of-5-powerful-nvc-micro-lessons-2026-relationship-reset-series"
date: "2026-09-19T11:07:26+00:00"
language: "en-US"
---

#   "Relationship Reset" micro-lesson #4

11-Feb-2026

#### Lesson 4 of 5 powerful NVC micro-lessons - 2026 "Relationship Reset" series

The “Pure Observation” truth - "Relationship Reset" series

 Most conflicts start because we argue about **interpretations**, not **facts**.

Try this practice: look at a text message from your partner or friend that triggered feelings of annoyance in you recently. Notice any **evaluations, labels, or diagnoses** that pop up - thinking that focuses on "who is what" rather than what is actually happening - then try to rephrase it as a simple observation.

 For instance

You might be thinking: *“He’s ignoring me.”*

A pure observation could be: *“I sent a text four hours ago and have not yet received a reply.”*

Observations help us stay grounded - and they make it easier for the other person to hear us without defensiveness.

 Want to learn more?

Watch the video to explore how to express observations with more clarity. (Credit: @GiraffeNVC)

 [Watch the video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00eZOhA1OBc)

 ![](https://www.cnvc.org/images/Wednesday_micro-lesson_4.jpg)

---

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