Meeting the Four Basic Needs of Human Connection: A Quick Quiz

In a world filled with distractions and preoccupations, human connection is often overlooked, leading to a sense of loneliness and disconnection. This quiz aims to assess whether you are meeting the four fundamental needs of human connection: feeling Safe, Lovable, Capable, and a sense of Belonging. Take a moment to reflect on your interactions with others and discover ways to strengthen these vital connections.

I See You! (Safe)

- Every individual needs to feel safe in the presence of their most important people.

- Safety is established when others actively see, protect, and allow individuals to be themselves.

Quiz Questions

  - Do the people around you feel safe enough to share their feelings and ideas openly?

  - Have you been accused of shutting down conversations with a "my way or the highway" approach?

  - Do others seem free and open to express whatever is on their minds?

Action Items

  - Treat others as the most important person in the room.

  - Pay attention to non-verbal cues, emotional communication, and nuanced changes in others.

I Hear You! (Capable)

- Individuals need to know that their voice matters and that they are capable of sharing their thoughts and being understood.

- Having a voice implies feeling safe enough to explore and express ideas without fear of backlash.

Quiz Questions

  - Do people feel like you truly understand their emotions and feelings?

  - Are you dismissive of others' ideas, considering them immature or not good enough?

  - Do others feel that you genuinely hear their entire point of view and understand them?

Action Items

  - Reflect back what you hear others saying to show you understand.

  - Encourage others to share their opinions and avoid dominating conversations.

I Feel You! (Lovable)

- Every individual needs to feel that their emotions and feelings are understood and protected by their loved ones.

- Feeling lovable occurs when vulnerable emotions are acknowledged and safeguarded.

Quiz Questions

  - Do you consistently acknowledge the people around you when you are with them?

  - Do you pay attention to changes in others' moods and show that you care?

  - Do others feel like their feelings matter to you?

Action Items

  - "Feel" another person by understanding and sharing their emotions.

  - Show that you mourn with those who mourn, sharing in their joys and sorrows.

I'm With You! (Belonging)

- Every individual prefers hearing positive affirmations, emphasizing a sense of belonging and togetherness.

- Knowing that you belong, are capable, loved, and safe is more impactful than dwelling on weaknesses.

Quiz Questions

  - Do the people around you hear more positives than negatives in your communication?

  - Do you provide evidence, through conversation, that you are together and not enemies?

  - Would an outsider perceive a genuine liking between you and others?

Action Items

  - Show where you stand with others and affirm the positive aspects of your relationships.

  - Acknowledge weaknesses and apologize when necessary.

Human connection is built on a foundation of safety, capability, lovability, and a sense of belonging. Use this quick quiz as a guide to enhance your interactions, fostering deeper connections and understanding with those around you.