The deepest craving of human nature is the need to be appreciated.

— William James

CREATIVITY

WHAT THIS MEANS

Much of what people do, working late, showing off, sulking, overperforming, comes back to wanting to be seen and valued. Being appreciated confirms that your existence and effort matter to someone. When that need goes unmet for a long time, people can turn resentful, anxious or withdrawn, often without realising what is missing.

Two things follow. Notice when your own behaviour might be a disguised request for recognition, and consider asking more directly. And offer specific appreciation to one person around you this week, naming something they actually did rather than giving a general thank you.

A QUESTION TO SIT WITH

Who in your life has gone a long time unthanked?

MORE IN PARADOX, METAPHOR & FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Free, with nothing to buy inside it.