Nonviolent Communication NVC can dramatically improve our relationships by helping us focus our attention on:

1. Empathic understanding of others without compromising our own values, and 
2. Expressing our real feelings and needs openly and honestly, yet without blame or criticism.

The concept of needs is the cornerstone of Nonviolent Communication. A need is defined as the energy in living organisms that compels them to seek fulfillment and to thrive.

Examples of needs include water, air, freedom and meaning. We hold needs as universal. Thus, expressing our needs and acknowledging the needs of others enables us to connect at a deep place of the human experience and create common ground.