As I sat there looking at our engagement survey, I felt a mix of things:

1. Are they really going to look into this?
2. I don’t even know what to put.

So I did what most people probably do—I gave neutral answers. Nothing too strong, nothing too detailed… just enough to move through it.

But later, I realized I missed an opportunity.

Not because the survey wasn’t important—but because I hadn’t taken the time to truly understand my own needs in the workplace.

The Concept I Forgot to Apply

One concept I’ve learned before—but didn’t apply in that moment—is Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs.

At its core, it breaks down human needs into five levels:

1. Physiological needs – basic comfort and accessibility
2. Safety – physical and emotional security
3. Love & belonging – feeling connected and included
4. Esteem – recognition, confidence, and value
5. Self-actualization – reaching your full potential

Looking back, I realized I hadn’t paused to evaluate how my role aligned with these needs—or how I was showing up within them.

Where the Shift Happens

It’s easy to look at a job and ask:

👉 “Is this enough?”

But a better question is:

👉 “How does this role support my needs—and how am I contributing within that?”

Because growth isn’t just about the company meeting expectations.
It’s also about understanding what you need to show up fully.

Questions Worth Asking Yourself

If you’re evaluating your current role—or considering a new one—start here:

1.

What do I need to feel comfortable day-to-day?

Think about your environment:

• Is it supportive of your basic needs?
• Do you feel physically and mentally able to do your work well?

2.

What helps me feel like I belong?

• Do you value connection with your team?
• Do you prefer collaboration or independence?

3.

How do I define meaningful recognition?

• Do you feel fulfilled by your contributions?
• What kind of acknowledgment motivates you?

4.

What does support look like for me?

• How do you recharge mentally?
• What kind of environment helps you stay balanced?

5.

What does growth look like for me?

• What skills do you want to build?
• What challenges help you move forward?

The Reality Most People Skip

Understanding your needs is just as important as understanding the role itself.

Because when your needs aren’t aligned:

• Motivation drops
• Burnout increases
• Growth feels forced instead of natural

And over time, that doesn’t just impact your work—it can carry into your personal life too.

Final Thought

Before assuming a role isn’t fulfilling—or jumping to the next opportunity—take a step back and evaluate:

👉 Do I fully understand what I need?
👉 Am I showing up in alignment with that?

Because clarity changes everything.

When you understand your needs, you don’t just work—you grow with intention.

Source

This reflection is inspired by general principles from Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, a widely recognized framework for understanding human motivation.