Needs Inventory: The Spiraling Path of Human Needs

A guide for healing, self-discovery, and authentic connection

So often in life, we feel frustration, sadness, or conflict—not because we are “too emotional” or “too sensitive,” but because a core human need is going unmet. A needs inventory gives us a roadmap. It helps us name what is happening inside, so we can turn judgment into clarity and distance into connection.

In therapy sessions, in retreats, in families, and even in the workplace, having a list of human needs in front of you can shift a conversation from blame (“you never listen to me”) to vulnerability and authenticity (“I need to feel heard and understood”).

This list, adapted from Nonviolent Communication (NVC) and expanded through the Spiraling Path approach, is not exhaustive or definitive. Instead, think of it as a compass. It is here to guide you inward, to help you listen more deeply to yourself, and to support honest, compassionate dialogue with the people in your life and colleagues at work.

Connection

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

Physical Well-Being

fresh air	rest and sleep	safe touch
nourishing food	sexual expression	clean water
movement and exercise	shelter and protection

Honesty

authenticity

integrity

presence

Play and Creativity

joy	spontaneity	discovery
humor	self-expression

Peace and Beauty

harmony	communion	inspiration
balance	ease	order
beauty	equality

Autonomy

choice	independence	sovereignty
freedom	personal space

Meaning and Growth

awareness	clarity	discovery
purpose	competence	consciousness
creativity	hope	effectiveness
contribution	inspiration	stimulation
celebration of life	to matter	understanding
learning	mourning (when needed)
growth	participation

Reflection

When you feel triggered, pause and ask, What need of mine is longing to be met right now? This practice transforms judgment into compassion and creates space for authentic healing.

Download this list, keep it in your journal or at your desk, and bring it with you to therapy, a retreat, or even your next team meeting. Let it remind you that every emotion points toward a need longing to be met.

Created by Authentic Healing and Counseling and Spiraling Forward

Phone: 281-501-0109 | Email: info@authentichealingandcounseling.com