HAVE YOUR EVER stopped mid-coffee sip and thought, What really drives me? Not just the random cravings for tacos at 2 a.m. or that new gadget you don’t really need—but the deep-down stuff, the core needs that steer every choice, feeling, and Netflix binge you make. Yep, we’re talking about the big stuff here.

Turns out, we all share essential human needs that are basically the operating system of our lives. They’re not pie-in-the-sky ideas—they’re the why behind how we hustle, love, create, and connect. And when we get them right? Life feels like a symphony. When we don’t? Well, cue the out-of-tune kazoo. So, let’s break it down:

* Certainty (work, well-Being): AKA the “I need my ducks in a row” need. Whether it’s a steady paycheck, Taco Tuesday, a morning run, or knowing your favorite mug is where it belongs, certainty keeps us sane. It’s the security blanket of life.

* Variety (fun): Because who wants the same cereal for breakfast every day? Variety spices things up—adventure, new experiences, spontaneous road trips—it’s what keeps life interesting.

* Recognition (significance): We all want a gold star sometimes. Whether it’s crushing it at work or someone noticing your new haircut, we live for those “you matter” moments.

* Love (passion): The big one. Whether it’s rom-com style or simply a passion for something that gets your motor running like nothing else, love reminds us that we're alive.

* Connection (tribe): Beyond love, it’s about finding your people, your crew, your “I can show up in sweatpants and no one cares” tribe. Connection keeps us grounded.

* Sharing (honesty): Real relationships aren’t built on emojis alone. Sharing lets us go deep—trust, honesty, and heart-to-hearts that make us feel seen and heard.

* Growth (a better you): Because no one wants to feel like they’re stuck on autopilot. Growth is stepping outside your comfort zone, learning cool stuff, and leveling up in life.

* Contribution (giving back): Maybe it’s donating, volunteering, or just helping a friend move (seriously, that’s love). Giving back makes life bigger than just you—and leaves a legacy worth remembering.

When we balance these needs, we’re basically laying a foundation for crushing life. Careers? Growing. Relationships? Thriving. Personal growth? On fire. But when these needs go unmet for too long, life starts to feel… off. Like wearing shoes that don’t fit. You might feel stuck, unsure, or like you’re spinning your wheels. Been there?

So here’s the million-dollar question: Are you meeting your needs in ways that actually fill your tank—or are you running on fumes?

Take a sec to reflect. Which of these needs could use a little TLC? What could you tweak to feel more aligned, more “you” again? Because this isn’t just about coasting through life—it’s about living like you mean it.

Start small. Tweak one thing. Watch what happens when you start honoring what actually drives you. Life gets better, brighter, and—dare we say—more fun.

-Grady Pope Notions on Human Needs

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