A few years ago, I was at a recruiting event. A younger member of the organization shared the following with a potential incoming class:

“There will be speed bumps along the day… You will need to take detours. We talk about opportunities here; you need to seize them. I thought I had everything under control, and I didn’t. I couldn’t keep doing the same things. I had to reach out to someone… And I did.”

The level of vulnerability demonstrated was powerful. To say it was impactful would be an understatement. I thought to myself:

“This is a place where I could belong.”

What are things you look for when entering a new space? Do you have a checklist? Being included is one thing. But belonging is an entirely different phenomenon.

Cornell University’s Diversity and Inclusion department shares the following on their website:

Belonging is the feeling of security and support when there is a sense of acceptance, inclusion, and identity for a member of a certain group. It is when an individual can bring their authentic self to work.

Do you belong where you are right now?

A few months ago, I had a chat with someone whom I would consider a mentor. They shared with me:

“Go where you are wanted.”

Wherever you are in this moment, ask yourself:

“Am I wanted in this place?”

If not, then why are you still there?