Needs are never conflicting. When we say that, we are only saying that at the moment we aren't seeing how both needs can be met. That leaves an opening. When you think in the way I'm suggesting, you'll often find a way to get most needs met simultaneously.

The key to fostering connection in the face of a 'no' is always hearing 'yes' to something else.

If we want to be compassionate we must be conscious of the words we use. We must both speak and listen from the heart.

I recommend allowing others the opportunity to fully express themselves before turning our attention to solutions or requests for relief. When we proceed too quickly to what people might be requesting, we may not convey our genuine interest in their feelings and needs; instead, they may get the impression that we're in a hurry to either be free of them or to fix their problem. Furthermore, an initial message is often like the tip of an iceberg; it may be followed by yet unexpressed, but related - and often more powerful - feelings.

Analyses of others are actually expressions of our own needs and values

With every choice you make, be conscious of what need it serves.

Use anger as a wake-up call to unmet needs.