💌 Connection #7: The 4 Human Concerns

1 idea, 1 practice, 1 question

Hi friend,

Here’s 1 idea, 1 practice, and 1 question to create more expansive connections this week.

One idea to consider

The 4 Human Concerns is a framework for understanding the fundamental motivations and activities that define human experience.

Each Concern is a core activity that meets an essential human needs.

• Connection: Experiencing the relationship to one’s self and other people, places, things, or ideas.

• Consumption: Vital consumption for basic needs of sustenance, and non-vital for higher order needs of personal enjoyment.

• Creation: Bringing things, experiences, and ideas into existence, whether for professional, personal, or any other purpose.

• Cultivation: Developing and refining one’s abilities, perspectives, and attitudes.

At all times, humans are engaged in one or more of the 4 Concerns.

One practice to try on

When balanced according to one’s values, these Concerns manifest harmoniously. They serve to meet our needs and accomplish our goals. When out of balance, misalignment and dysfunction occurs.

Ask yourself the following question:

“Which Concerns do I want more of in my life? Which do I want less of?”

Each of your relationships has a unique tendency to impact the balance of Concerns in your life. Use this framework to bring greater awareness to your relationships and help understand the role each plays in your life.

One question to ask

“Which form of self-expression has become increasingly important to you?”

💡Like this week’s question? Ask it on Letterloop in your own private group newsletter with friends, families, and teams.

🤎 New around here? We’re so glad you stopped by today. Join the newsletter here — it’s completely free.

💌 Enjoy this content? Forward to a friend. Writing this took 25 hours, and we’re sure it’ll spark new conversations.