Communication Quote by Marshall B. Rosenberg
“Every moment each human being is doing the best we know at that moment to meet our needs. We never do anything that is not in the service of a need, there is no conflict on our planet at the level of needs. We all have the same needs. The problem is in strategies for meeting the needs.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Nonviolent Communication, 2003
Human actions aim to meet needs; conflict arises from differing strategies, not needs themselves.
In simple terms: People act to meet needs; conflict is about methods.
Key Takeaway
Focus on needs, not tactics, to resolve conflict.
Themes
psychology
communication
conflict resolution
human needs
empathy
Mood
reflective
calm
Type
theoretical
practical
When to use this quote
- family disputes
- workplace negotiations
- international diplomacy
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
nonviolent communication
need‑based dialogue
strategic disagreement
universal needs
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we uncover true needs in a heated discussion?
- What strategies help align differing approaches?
A Different Perspective
Needs can be misinterpreted or hidden.
