The dictionary says a “need” is something that is essential and necessary. Though I believe that is relative because what one person considers a need may be a want or luxury to someone else. Besides the needs of man cannot be quantified.
We all know the basic needs of food, shelter and clothing, but it goes way beyond that. There are also physical, emotional and mental needs that determine our total wellbeing. As different as we are as a people, so are our needs. While some people need music and tranquility to sleep, some just hit the bed and they are fast asleep.
Needs can get complicated when it comes to love because where one partner needs words of affirmation to feel loved, the other person may just require gifts to feel appreciated. Or while a partner needs open affection to feel loved, the other may just need quality time with their partner. So it’s not a one-way rule.
It is also important to note that as we change and age, so do our needs and wants. Communication is important where a person’s needs are concerned. You can’t conclude or decide for the other party and you cannot trivialise it.
A simple “hug” or a “smile” may be all a person needs to get through the day.
We also have health needs that need to be met by ourselves for ourselves, but we often ignore it until it becomes an emergency.
A “want” on the other hand is something that is desired. Everyone has desires but not all desires are met. Some people desire to live in a mansion and drive the latest cars, but it doesn’t happen and they still live happy and fulfilled lives regardless.
This is in direct contrast to a need, because it affects all aspects of life. Just as a hungry man cannot perform at his utmost capacity, same way it is if your emotional needs are not met, it will affect your personality and everything you do.
On a last note, most times we don’t need the things we want, but it’s always fun to get them. After all, what’s life without some fun?
#tiwa_says.