What are we all looking for on Valentine’s Day? To be connected with someone else? To have a sense of belonging? It is a need as critical as breathing. Feeling a connection or a sense of belonging improves both your physical and mental health.
There is so much power in knowing you are not alone! Companionship helps us feel as though we are part of something bigger than just ourselves. So why do so many of us feel disconnected or lonely?
Connecting with others is built on a foundation of acceptance. Acceptance of yourself and acceptance of others.
Are you looking for ways you are more different than alike? If you can’t find sameness, are you finding value in the differences? Do the words you use create separateness or togetherness?
Sometimes it takes a day like today to stop and reflect on how we are treating ourselves (negative self-talk, denying our own wants and needs), and how that affects our interaction and intentions with others.
It can be hard work to figure out how you belong to yourself while also belonging to others.
Maya Angelou wrote: “You are only free when you realize you belong no place, you belong every place – no place at all. The price is high. The reward is great.”