Human Needs - Expression

Expression is the need to be artistic, to be seen, to be heard, to be felt. It is the need to express oneself through words, speech, actions, dress, art and self-creations of all types.

Examples of how Expression manifests for different people:

• Expressing through the Internet (creating web sites, writing newsletters, creating graphic art, stating opinions)
• Writing books, poems, articles
• Reading poetry at coffee houses
• Writing opinion articles for newspapers and magazines
• Public speaking about topics that are near and dear to the speaker
• Creating art in all forms (painting, jewelry, crafts, interior design, graphic design, furniture design, architecture)
• Teaching creative thinking classes or workshops
• Designing company logos or ad campaigns
• Coaching children in creative arts
• Dancing or teaching dance in all forms
• Acting in movies, plays or local theaters

Positive aspects : Demonstrating individual creativity, showing balance, getting in touch with creativity, promoting understanding (by revealing self) through art, words, behavior; being a living expression of "who I am."

Negative aspects : Invasion of other's space (too much self-expression), self-centered, temperamental, blind to other's value, lying, creating or expressing a false image.

How this need affects the workplace : People with a need for Expression will be happiest when they are free to express their inherent creativity. Examples might be through writing or designing a company newsletter; creating a company logo; developing company brochures; designing a new work space arrangement; creating designs for new products , services or related materials; designing or maintaining a company's Internet web site; giving speeches on behalf of the company's values, goals and mission (if they reflect the person's values and beliefs).

In many companies, expression of individuality is rigidly controlled and monitored. This may lead to destruction of an individual's ability to function fully and productively in that environment.

For a person with a need for Expression, such an environment will either drive them toward negative expressions or they will go where their creativity is valued. People who cannot be creative or expressive through their work, may find outlets in community activities that are sufficient to satisfy their need for Expression.