The drivers of human behaviour

Many of us share a desire to avoid unnecessary pain and suffering and, ultimately, to be happy, whatever happiness means to each of us.

How we pursue that happiness is an individual journey. Personally, I believe it is also a journey connected by the unity and oneness of people, the planet, nature and all forms of life.

When we stop focusing only on our differences and separateness, we may become more aware of what connects us. From this place, peace and compassion can grow.

I want to focus on a personal-development framework known as the Six Human Needs, developed and popularised by Tony Robbins. Personally, I have found this framework profoundly life-changing. When we question the needs or ‘programmes’ that may be influencing our behaviour, we can begin to make more conscious choices.

The six core human needs

1. Certainty – Safety, control and consistency.
2. Variety – Adventure, change and challenge.
3. Significance – Meaning, importance and recognition.
4. Love and connection – Communication, belonging and connection.
5. Growth – Emotional, spiritual, intellectual or physical development.
6. Contribution – Giving to and serving others.

Within this framework, the first four are described as needs of the personality, while growth and contribution are described as spiritual needs.

We may try to meet these needs each day in ways that are constructive and resourceful, or in ways that are less helpful to ourselves and the people around us.

 With greater awareness of our needs and drivers, we may be able to shift unhelpful patterns and foster more balance in our lives.

Imbalances can arise when one need is pursued at the expense of others. For example, focusing heavily on significance could lead someone to prioritise status or recognition over love, growth and connection. Equally, someone who places great importance on security and consistency might eventually feel restricted and begin craving variety or adventure.

Awareness of the needs influencing our behaviour can help us reflect on where greater balance may be required. If our priorities feel out of alignment, we can consider which of these six needs are being met, which are being neglected and whether we want to respond differently.

This awareness may help us move towards a life that feels more authentic, balanced and joyful.

So, how are you meeting your core needs? Are your current choices constructive, neutral or unhelpful? Is there anything you would like to change with this new awareness?