Expressing Your Needs
Alex Koupal • June 28, 2023
How do I tell them I need something different?
Strong relationships are built on effective communication, understanding, and mutual support. Whether it's with parents, teachers, coworkers, or partners, expressing your needs is vital to fostering healthy connections.
This is easier said than done, however. Starting the conversation can feel daunting and uncomfortable. In this blog, we will explore the importance of expressing your needs and provide some practical tips to help you navigate these conversations successfully.
Why communication matters
Expressing your needs is not selfish or demanding; it is an essential part of maintaining open and honest relationships. When you communicate your needs, you give others the opportunity to understand you better and meet your expectations. It helps build trust, strengthens bonds, and promotes collaboration.
Tips for Effective Communication:
- Reflect: Before expressing your needs, take the time to identify them clearly. Understand what you require and why it is important to you. This self-awareness will help you to articulate your needs more effectively.
- Choose the right time and place: Find a suitable environment where you can have a focused and uninterrupted conversation. Ask the other person to sit down with you and make sure they are receptive and available to listen.
- Use "I" statements: Frame your statements using "I" rather than "you." This approach avoids sounding accusatory and helps create a safe space for dialogue. For more information on “I” statements, check out this article from verywellmind.com!
- Be specific and concise: Clearly communicate your needs using specific examples and avoid beating around the bush. This clarity helps others understand your perspective better and respond appropriately.
- Listen actively: Effective communication is a two-way process. Encourage the other person to share their thoughts and feelings, and listen attentively. This shows respect and validates their experiences.
- Talk to someone: Sometimes, the person we need to communicate with doesn’t have an open mind. They may get defensive and it can be tough to get our thoughts out in the open and feel heard. If you need support in brainstorming ways to effectively express your needs, book a free call with Alimental Life. We would love to help!
Expressing your needs is an important skill for maintaining and growing any relationship. By practicing effective communication and being willing to listen, you can create an environment where open dialogue and mutual understanding thrive.
Fireworks. Grilled hot dogs. Blue, Red and white colors everywhere you look. And of course, your relatives asking “why you’re still single” again… while you’re just trying to enjoy your burger in peace.
Welcome to the 4th of July—America’s favorite cookout meets emotional obstacle course.
The teen years come with a lot: changes hormones, pressure, identity stuff. Feeling tired, irritable, or needing space is normal. But if those moods stick around longer than a few days or start affecting their sleep, eating, motivation, or self-worth... it might be more than just a bad week.
Because “what if I ruin my life?” is not the vibe.
Let’s just say it out loud: if you’ve ever lain in bed staring at the ceiling, replaying a conversation from days ago, or sat in a meeting wondering if everyone secretly thinks you’re bad at your job—hi. Welcome to the club.
Anxiety in adulthood is real. And more common than we’re willing to admit.
You’re not weird, broken, or “too much.” You’re a human being trying to navigate a world that throws a lot at you.
Between social media pressure, academic stress, and the constant comparison game, it’s no wonder so many teens struggle with confidence. If you’re a parent watching your teen second-guess themselves or shrink away from opportunities, it can be heartbreaking. And if you’re a young adult reflecting on your own teen years, you might totally relate to feeling a little lost, overwhelmed, or like you were “behind.”
Confidence is one of those things we assume just shows up one day. It’s something that’s built. And it can be built at any age—with the right support.
Building meaningful connections as a mom or young professional is challenging. If you’re always giving more than you’re receiving—whether in friendships, romantic relationships, or work—it can feel like you’re losing yourself.
But here’s the truth: healthy relationships are meant to add to your life, not drain it. The key is setting solid boundaries, recognizing red flags, and understanding what a truly supportive relationship looks like.
Let’s be honest—having ADHD in a world built for color-coded planners and endless to-do lists is rough.
You’re not lazy. You’re not broken. Your brain just works differently.
This blog is for the moms juggling 18 mental tabs, the professionals staring at a to-do list wondering where to start, and anyone who’s ever felt “too much” or “not enough.”
Job hunting can feel tough, whether you’re reentering the workforce or starting fresh. Focus on what matters: a tailored resume, being yourself in interviews, and learning from rejection.
Ready to land your next job? We’re here to help with resume tips and career guidance!
Graduated with a diploma, a debit card, and no clue how to budget? Same.
This is the money talk schools skipped—budgeting, saving, credit, and figuring it out as you go.
You’re not behind. You’re just getting started.
