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.

It’s easy to become discouraged, to feel as if things will not get any better. It does get better, but it starts with you. I believe that motivation starts from within. It’s not something that someone either possesses or doesn’t - but rather, it’s something that’s rebuildable when it falls down. This “how to” guide will hopefully help you to learn how to keep going forward, even when times get tough.