6 Core Needs - Tony Robbins

Why do we do the things we do? 

Why is it that we measure success and value by attention and status, yet frown on complacency?

What force drives and shapes all of our emotions, actions, quality of life and, ultimately, our destinies?

Did you know that the answers to these questions can be explained by learning about the Six Basic Human Needs?

As Tony Robbins explains, challenging Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, “All dysfunctional behaviors arise from the inability to consistently meet these core needs. But people's needs aren't just behind the bad decisions we make -- they are also behind all the great things humans accomplish. Understanding your own needs in psychology can not only help you avoid toxic behaviors and habits, but can also help you achieve your goals.”

How do we develop our core needs?

Each of us is unique and shaped by our individual life events and corresponding emotions. Many of our deepest needs are developed in childhood, when our minds are taking in all the information they can. This information, whether positive or negative, creates our beliefs and values -- and those create our entire world. It's even been proven that stress in childhood has lasting effects on brain chemistry and development.

What are the six human needs?

#1  Certainty: assurance you can avoid pain and gain pleasure. 

#2. Uncertainty/Variety: the need for the unknown, change, new stimuli. 

#3.  Significance: feeling unique, important, special, or needed.

#4.  Connection/Love: a strong feeling of closeness or union with someone or something.

#5. Growth: an expansion of capacity, capability, or understanding.

#6. Contribution: a sense of service and focus on helping, giving to, and supporting others.

Everyone ranks these human needs differently, and the way they are ranked explain why you are the way you are as a person. 

The top four needs in the list shape are personality, while the last two (growth and contribution) shape our spiritual needs. 

People's needs can be met in a variety of ways. 

We seek fulfillment through our relationships, careers, personal interests, and more.

For more information about determining your unique mix of needs, go to:  6 human needs: why are they so important? | Tony Robbins