Belonging

The essence of belonging is not about being like everyone else, it is more to do with recognising what is unique about you and using it to add value to any given environment.

Some would think that to belong means that you have to fit into a mould, this might even be your impression. But, what if you were to be appreciated just as you are, and feel a sense of belonging because you are bringing your own special essence to the environment, group or relationship. However, to do this takes courage, to be your unique selfyou first have to accept that it is okay to be different and to present yourself just as you are so that other people can relate to you on those terms.

For a moment think about your circle of friends, do you like them all for the same reason, or is there something special that you can identify in each person that makes them interesting? So, bearing this in mind, when contemplating whether you belong in an environment consider the missing ingredient, and see how you can add value. Take a classic jigsaw puzzle, there are so many pieces, but they are all different, because they all serve their own unique purpose. If just one piece is missing the picture would be incomplete, and this is the same with you, hence, knowing that you can belong without being like everybody else gives you more scope to be creative.

This does not apply in only one arena, it applies in all walks of life. Think in terms of a business, you have more than likely heard it asked, “What is your unique selling point?”, so, again it is about differentiating yourself from other businesses that may be doing similar things to you. When you can master the message of what makes you special and a valuable part of the puzzleyou no longer have a need to “fit in” as you know why you are valuable to the relationship, team or environment.