Today we get the 3rd level of need which is a need for Love and Belonging. Once our physiological and safety needs are met, there is a need to be a part of something bigger than ourselves To love and to be loved, to belong. This belonging can be to a small group such as a family unit or workgroup or something larger such as a large altruistic organization, professional society, church, etc. Belonging is important, as it creates more comfort in the bond, and may help provide greater awareness and insight into the circumstances around us. What are the groups you belong to? How do these groups impact how your view your identity? Today we will double dip and also mention the next need of esteem. Once we belong, we want to be well regarded by others. We enjoy the recognition that comes along with the recognitions that validate who we are. the drive for esteem can be consuming. We likely all know someone who seeks esteem through titles and recognition without regard for others. Esteem can serve to validate us and help us to believe things about ourselves that can embolden us. When was the last time you were validated by someone or something, how did that make you feel? How might your actions have been impacted without that validation? Tomorrow we talk about the final level in Maslow's hierarchy of needs.
