Once we have these external needs fulfilled, the next level is to start getting our personal needs met.

The next level is our need to be loved and feel that we belong. Without this we become isolated and alone.

* How will I keep in touch with friends and family?
* Will I feel supported and loved?
* Can I communicate with the people?
* How will I make friends?
* Is there an Expat community I can become part of?
* What is the attitude towards foreigners?
* Are there similar groups that I belong to over there?

Feeling good about ourselves and who we are is the next level - Self respect, confidence, sense of identity and achievement. If this is missing we may have low self esteem, lack confidence and feel useless.

* Are there opportunities to use my strengths and skills?
* Where can I add value or contribute?
* Will people respect and appreciate me?
* Is the role that I am taking on one that will make me feel good about myself?
* What opportunities are there for learning and my personal growth?

The final evolved level of personal needs takes us to where we express and live our true and best selves. We are able to find meaning in life, personal fulfillment, abundance, balance, happiness and joy.

* Am I living the life I choose?
* Can I continue to nourish my body, mind and soul?
* Am I in integrity? How can I maintain my integrity?
* How can I be the difference I want to see in the world?
* What will be the legacy I leave?
* Will I be able to create and live my vision?
* How can I feel fulfilled and at peace?

Some of us may never reach the last stage of enlightenment (Maslow estimated that only about 2% of the population reaches this level) but isn't it something to discover and work towards as a possibility - no matter where we are in the world?

Coaching Tip from Val
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Our needs drive us. They can take over our lives as we try to get them met - and if they aren't met they can prevent us from reaching our potential or finding success. The first step is to get over the negative feeling or the embarrassment that you may have about them. I hope by now that you can see that they are part of what it is to be a human being.

Remember that having needs doesn't make us needy! Satisfying our needs is essential for us to grow and thrive. The next step is to identify our own personal needs and work at ensuring they are met - permanently. This takes work and time.

Cheers

Val

Val Boyko is a Scot and an American, expatriate spouse, interculturalist and professional coach. As a Global Coach she supports individuals moving to and from the USA, giving them a jump start to integrate quickly and be successful in the new culture.

Her passion is for her clients to discover new possibilities and a sense of purpose whilst overseas - and beyond!

Val is a graduate of Coach University, a member of the Society for Intercultural Education, Training and Research and on the board of the Philadelphia chapter of the International Coach Federation. Find out more about Val and her approach at www.MyGlobalCoach.com