BASIC NEEDS
As mentioned, our feelings are messengers trying to tell us what our needs are.
Underneath all the layers of our emotions, at the core, lies a true, valid need.
I like to categorize all of my needs into one of the 6 Basic Human Needs categories spoken of by Tony Robbins.
When it comes to resolving trauma, I like to focus on the first 4 of these basic human needs:
- Connection
Some things that fall under this category are:
Attunement - to be deeply seen, heard, and understood
Secure Attachment
Love
Belonging - Significance
Importance
To Matter - Certainty
Some things that fall under this category are:
Survival - air, water, food, shelter, etc
Safety - Physical
Security - Emotional or Financial
Solitude
Comfort
Health
Well-Being - Uncertainty
Things would get mighty boring if everything stayed the same (certain) all the time.
Some things that fall under this category are:
Newness/Novelty
Spontaneity
Pleasant Surprises
Adventure
Variety
Once those 4 basic needs are being met on a consistent basis, then I turn my attention to the other 2 basic human needs:
Growth and Contribution.
For many of us, our basic needs were not met on a consistent basis when we were growing up.
We may not even be aware of what the basic needs of humans are.
Learning about them has been life-changing for me.