As the World Cup comes to a close, it’s worth reflecting on what these past five weeks of intense, communal, worldwide game watching have revealed and taught us. While the tournament ultimately crowns one champion, it also brings together millions of people through a shared passion that transcends languages and cultures. With 48 countries competing for the trophy, the World Cup becomes a celebration of identity and human connection.

Belonging is a deeply rooted, powerful, and authentic human experience. It allows us to feel truly valued and accepted by our peers and loved ones, in a way that feels like we’re “coming home.” For many people, the idea of what belonging means has always been tied to similarity. That means being around a community of people from the same background, culture, or certain beliefs.

Belonging can take on multiple interpretations, but is most recognized as the human need to be valued. This sense of value can derive from a variety of sources, including individuals, groups, communities, and more. While one can receive satisfaction from any form of belonging, one cannot earn the fullest extent of belonging without realizing it.

Motivation is often portrayed as something entirely up to the individual, made up of their own discipline, routine, and personal drive. As integral as these are, there is an equally important factor that is often overlooked: connection.