Connection mattershere’s how to strengthen it
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We all need to be accepted.
It’s that feeling of walking into a room and instantly feeling at home.
Belonging is more than just a social nicety; it plays a vital role in our mental well-being.
Jade / Getty Images
Research suggests that it’s associated with better resilience, motivation, mental health, and even physical wellness.
What does it mean to belong?
A sense of belonging involves more than being acquainted with other people.
Sense of Belonging in Action
What inspires people to seek out specific groups?
In many cases, the need to belong to certain social groups results from sharing some point of commonality.
The need for love and belonging lie at the pyramid’s center as part of social needs.
Feeling a sense of belonging can have significant short and long-term effects.
For example, evidence shows that school belonging is an important predictor of future education and employment.
Increase Your Sense of Belonging
How do we create a sense of belonging?
you could also build connections by helping other people feel included.
You might ask their thoughts during a conversation or invite them to participate in group activities.
Takeaways
A sense of belonging is crucial for good physical and mental health.
They can help you to identify the root of your feelings and provide strategies for achieving belongingness.
A study of factors which influence performance within self-determination theory.PLoS One.
2021;16(9):e0256558.
2023;20(5):4121. doi:10.3390/ijerph20054121
