Last week, we started to think about defining our specific needs.
1. We all have basic needs such as housing, food, clothing, medical/dental care- our physical needs. Are these needs being fulfilled, if not, are we able to recognize that?
2. The next area to explore is emotional needs. Do we feel safe in our relationships? Do we have a connection with another person that is honest, non-judgmental, and encouraging? If not, are we able to recognize that?
3. The final area to explore is intellectual needs. Do we feel we are utilizing our full intellectual capacity? Are we open to learning new ideas, taking in new information, and finding creative solutions to problems? Do we feel connected in a relationship where our thoughts/ideas are valued? If not, are we able to recognize that?
If you are having difficulty recognizing the areas where your needs are unfulfilled, try writing a list called, ‘areas of functioning’ which can include:
- Work/School
- Activities of Self-Care (grooming, household tasks)
- Leisure Activities
- Health/Medical
Now, write a list of ‘relationships’, which can include:
- Family
- Friends
- Primary Support Group
- Marital/Romantic
- Parenting
Look to see where there is a significant lack and ask yourself if you are dissatisfied with this lack. Now you will be able to identify specific areas where needs are unfulfilled.
This is the first step in designing your plan of fulfillment…
In a couple of weeks, we will explore the 'signs' that tell us when we have been neglecting our needs.
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