16/02/2024
📍 Belonging, Love & Connection
Struggling with a sense of true belonging and human connection—or the lack thereof—is a reality many of us grapple with, myself included.
Almost daily, I encounter people, who express feelings of loneliness.
A kind of loneliness that even persists despite being surrounded by others, highlighting a profound sense of social disconnection and an absence of belonging.
I've delved into these topics extensively and feel compelled to share some of my insights.
One of my favorite researchers and authors, Brené Brown, embodies vulnerability, speaks with heartfelt honesty, and supports her insights with her extensive research.
In her latest book, "Atlas of the Heart," she thoughtfully examines Love, Belonging, Connection, and Disconnection across several chapters.
Below, I share my personal highlights from her work that have inspired greater understanding and fostered a path toward healing...Thank you Brene Brown for your profound work.
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📍”True connection and belonging doesn't require you to change who you are; it requires you to be who you are."
Love, connection and belonging are fundamental components of the human experience, deeply rooted in our psychological makeup.
These needs are considered irreducible because they are essential for our mental health and overall well-being.
When these needs are unmet, we can experience a range of negative consequences, including feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety.
Disconnection from another person can create disconnection within ourselves.
And can manifest as emotional distress and can even impact physical health.
Connection is in our neurobiology, and our desire for belonging is hardwired.
Often we try to acquire connection by any means possible, including trying to fit in and hustling for approval and acceptance.
Not only are these efforts hollow substitutes for belonging, but they are the greatest barriers to belonging.
When we sacrifice who we are, we not only feel separate from others, but we even feel disconnected from ourselves.
The reason why our experiences of disconnection are so painful and why chronic disconnection leads to social isolation, loneliness, and feelings of powerlessness.
It is a mistake to think that belonging is passive and simply about joining or "going along" with others.
Self-belonging means embracing who we are, with all our unique qualities and imperfections, and standing confidently in our individuality, while being part of something greater.
