List of needs

A non-exhaustive list of words describing needs

Non-Violent Communication suggests that in any moment of communication, we're either saying thank you, because a need has been met, or please, because we're asking for one to be met. Building a vocabulary around needs helps us notice when a need is met and enjoy that satisfaction, and notice when a need isn't met and ask for it clearly.

This is a non-exhaustive list of needs, meant as a starting place for you to find your own words as you need them. I'd also invite you to consider how each of these would be expressed in your own native language.

Connection

acceptance, affection, appreciation, belonging, cooperation, communication, closeness, community, companionship, compassion, consideration, consistency, empathy, inclusion, intimacy, love, mutuality, nurturing, respect / self-respect, safety, security, stability, support, to know and be known, to see and be seen, to understand and be understood, trust, warmth

Physical Well-Being

air, food, movement / exercise, rest / sleep, sexual expression, safety, shelter, touch, water

Honesty

authenticity, integrity, presence

Play

joy, humor

Peace

beauty, communion, ease, equality, harmony, inspiration, order

Autonomy

choice, freedom, independence, space, spontaneity

Meaning

awareness, celebration of life, challenge, clarity, competence, consciousness, contribution, creativity, discovery, efficacy, effectiveness, growth, hope, learning, mourning, participation, purpose, self-expression, stimulation, to matter, understanding