The method of noticing and identifying feelings, then connecting them to needs was developed by Marshall Rosenberg and is known as Non-Violent Communication (NVC). NVC has been used in peace programs in places like Rwanda, Sri Lanka, Serbia, and the Middle East. If this method is good enough for conflict zones, surely it’s worth trying out in less heated domains like the workplace.
But, before thinking about how this method applies to the people around you, try focusing on how you can use it with yourself first.
Check out this List of Universal Needs and see which needs you relate to the most. Watching for the kinds of emotions that come up when those needs aren’t being met will help you respond more consciously.