Self-Reflection and Communication: Experiences in Social Justice and Compassion

Abstract

This essay is the presidential address delivered at the 90th annual Western States Communication Association convention. I argue that mindfulness and the practice of self-reflection that accompanies mindful living is linked to the interests of communication scholars. The self-reflection that mindfulness cultivates provides tools for engaging in social justice, encourages awareness of unconscious biases, and connects us with both students and colleagues through compassionate communication.

Keywords:

• Compassion
• Mindfulness
• Self-Reflection
• Unconscious Bias

Acknowledgments

The author thanks his colleagues Donna Gotch and Julie Taylor for their helpful feedback on earlier versions of this address.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.