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The Flourishing Compass

What does it take to flourish, not merely function? Deci and Ryan's Self-Determination Theory names three basic psychological needs. Move the axes and see when the light comes on.

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01

Autonomy

Acting from your own will and standing behind what you do. Not being alone, but freely choosing, including to connect.

02

Competence

Being effective, growing, mastering something.

03

Relatedness

To be seen and to see, to feel cared for and to care.

Three needs, one light

No need can stand in for another. A spike on a single axis leaves the orb dark. Only when all three are nourished together, and in balance, does the light bloom. It isn't the sum that counts, but the balance.

After Deci & Ryan, Self-Determination Theory. Balance finding: Sheldon & Niemiec, 2006.