This core need all humans thrive on gets a bad rep sometimes. Why? Because we often end up feeling needy. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but the repercussions could be. We judge our worth by what others see, we judge our worth by what we’re able to do, when we’re not ‘perfect’, we feel we’ve fallen short, and it can adversely affect our confidence levels, specifically in places of employment or business. But make no mistake: the need for significance in your life is definitely one of the six core basic human needs. As long as you’re focused on the right things!
When the search for significance goes awry
Arguments. Addictions. Over-competition. They’re all simply signs of someone who hasn’t found positive ways of meeting that core need of significance. And it’s unfortunate the unhealthy ways we all strive to feel recognized tend to end in disaster.
Case in point: the emotions we feel when we get that recognition are very much like an intense high (or a “power trip,” and many can relate to that!). Often alcohol or drugs can replace those emotions, though. And no one wants that.
What it takes to fulfill that need for significance in a healthy way
Wanting to be successful and being recognized for it isn’t a bad thing. Setting and then reaching goals hardly isn’t productive, at least from a mental or emotional capacity. But when it goes overboard, instead of proudly building those bridges that give you recognition, you’ll simply burn the ones already there. Leaving you alone on that island of relevancy.
But you can feel relevant without unknowingly pushing others aside. Try learning a new sport or skill. Volunteer. Focus on the people around you. Let your significance be the people around you.
We know it’s easier said than done as people are also not perfect
Just know it takes practice. Persistence. And perhaps a little pain and gain. Trust we’re right there with you, and you do have a community to support you below. Simply click and let more people recognize how truly great you are at making not only your life — but others’ lives — simply spectacular.
