We all have hunger, but I’m not talking about the physical feeling. We all hunger to matter and to be loved. In this episode, I dive into the ways that engagement and play can lead to affirmation and nourishment.

Here’s what’s covered in this episode:

Hurt and affirmation

For Level 2, the regressive pole is hunger, the progressive pole is affirmation, the principle is play/engagement, and the feeling is hurt. We look into each of their meanings and how they interact with one another.

Nourishment feeds our soul

When we feel hurt, we can choose to seek affirmation in ourselves or through others. Learning to say “ouch” when we are hurt is crucial to nourish and validate ourselves.

Professional example

As the CEO of my own company, I felt hunger for affirmation, but my job was to affirm my employees. If I went to work hungry, I wouldn't be able to affirm my employees to the best of my ability.

Personal example

Within my family, I sometimes have a difficult time saying “ouch,” specifically with my youngest daughter. We would often fight, but I started to say “ouch” and affirm myself, which led to a strengthening of our relationship.

Takeaway challenge

See if you can notice when you feel hurt. What are you hungry for? See if you can step back and affirm yourself.