Creating a Mind Map of Needs (GFK)

You now have a good feeling for how you communicate without violence and how you take into account the needs of the other and your own needs in communication. Now I want to introduce you another technique that can help you understand your own needs better: Mindmapping.

Mindmapping is a visual method for organizing ideas and information. It helps you to understand your subject with easier words. This method allows you to organize your needs within a chart or Mindmap.

You can start by recording all relevant information you know about the situation and how it affects you. For example, when it comes to dealing with conflicts, remember every aspect of the conflict and write it up. Then mark any element that affects you or creates the feeling that you need something. These points represent your needs.

If you have more than 10 points, they will gather and group them according to categories such as “conversation”, “time” or “support”. You can also add new ideas or remove points depending on what works best for you. Imagine how every point gives meaning to your life or what it improves.

Then you get a rough overview of your personal needs regarding the conflict – so you have more clarity about the type of solution and it is easier for you to decide whether or not negotiations / negotiation come into question for you.

Mindmapping is a very effective tool to better understand your needs and find the best way to satisfy them without hitting other people. It is easy to apply and gives you the opportunity to direct your focus on something essential – and soon you will be more confident in terms of non-violent communication!