The 3 Dimensions of Belonging: A Framework for Understanding How We Connect

Belonging is one of those catch-all terms that everyone talks about, but we're often describing completely different experiences. On this episode, Mateo explores a framework that breaks belonging into three distinct dimensions - not as a prescription to follow, but as a compass for understanding the different ways we can experience connection.

What Mateo Covers:

• The three dimensions of belonging: Self, Others, and Universal
• Why most conversations about belonging get stuck focusing on just one dimension
• How belonging with yourself creates space for more authentic relationships
• The science behind our innate connection to nature and something larger than ourselves
• Why exclusion registers in our brains the same way physical pain does
• How to use these dimensions as pathways when you're feeling disconnected
• The Venn diagram approach: mapping the seven different states of belonging

Key Ideas Explored:

• Brené Brown's True Belonging and what it means to stand alone in the wilderness
• The biophilia hypothesis and why we're wired for nature connection
• Ubuntu philosophy: "I am because we are"
• How authenticity and social connection can sometimes work against each other
• Why these dimensions aren't hierarchical - just different landscapes to explore

Resources: Mateo has created a free Venn Diagram PDF mapping out all seven belonging states, complete with research notes and book recommendations. Reach out at [email protected] or connect on LinkedIn to get your copy.

This isn't about optimizing your belonging or checking boxes. It's about recognizing the different pathways that are always available and learning to trust your own internal compass.

Enjoying these conversations? Please subscribe, rate, and review wherever you're listening - it helps more people discover these explorations of belonging and connection. Thank you for being part of this community and for doing the work of creating belonging for yourself and others.

Acknowledgments:

Music “Playing with Color” by Nullhertz obtained royalty-free from Pixabay

Thank you to the lovely people at Purple Space for your support

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Thank you for listening! 

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