Since this is a unit on communicating with others, let’s take a look at what needs you can meet when you are talking with someone else.

Physical Needs – food, water, breathing, shelter – These will probably be taken care of outside of your conversation.

Safety Needs – physical and financial safety; safe from accidents or illness – If you threaten or criticize the other person, they may go into a defensive mode and be concerned about their safety.  But if you are accepting, you can help meet their needs for safety.

Belonging Needs – friendships, family, and other relationships – You can really help fulfill belonging needs during a conversation, especially if you initiate and help the other person be part of the group.

Esteem Needs – being accepted, valued, and respected by others – Esteem Needs can definitely be met in conversation.

Self-Actualization Needs – realize your potential and do what you were “born to do” – Encouragement and maybe even working together to create something can help fulfill self-actualization needs.