Belonging + What We Do When We Don’t
We were designed for relationship—to connect and belong. But what happens when we lose our sense of belonging? What do we do when we feel like we don’t belong, are excluded, or experience breakdown in relationships—in whole or part? Too often, we substitute connection for substances, pursuits, habits, or actions we hope will fill our need to belong. Whether it’s gambling, food, sex, thrill-seeking, substance use, self-harm, power, religion, work, or some other alternative; our attempts can often lead to addictions. This month we want to start a conversation around the art of bonding and what it takes to feel connected in ways that increase our sense of belonging and self-worth. We want to unpack the value of learning to self-soothe, build resilience and take responsibility. Finally, we want to explore what it might take to break free of the addictions and bonds that fail to lead us to deeper and healthier human connection.
