2021: Creating a Lexicon of Future

B is for Belonging

Belongingness is the human emotional need to be an accepted member of a group. Whether it is family, friends, co-workers, a religion, or something else, people tend to have an ‘inherent’ desire to belong and be an important part of something greater than themselves. This implies a relationship that is greater than simple acquaintance or familiarity. The need to belong is the need to give and receive attention to and from others.

Belonging is a strong and inevitable feeling that exists in human nature. To belong or not to belong is a subjective experience that can be influenced by a number of factors within ourselves and our surrounding environment. ~ Wikipedia

Belongingness, refers to a human emotional need for interpersonal relationships, affiliating, connectedness, and being part of a group. Examples of belongingness needs include friendship, intimacy, trust, and acceptance, receiving and giving affection, and love. ~ Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

There are steps you can take to increase sense of belonging.

• Make an effort. Creating a sense of belonging takes effort, to put yourself out there, seek out activities and groups of people with whom you have common interests, and engage with others.
• Be patient. It might take time to gain acceptance, attention, and support from members of the group.
• Practice acceptance. Focus on the similarities, not the differences, that connect you to others, and remain open to new ways of thinking.