This is part of my series on Mental Models to Understand Yourself

In an unfathomable expanse of universe supporting galaxies of star systems with orbiting planets innumerable, I am nothing. And yet to the few bodies encircling my tiny little spot in the world, I am essential.
— Richelle E. Goodrich, Smile Anyway

You need to be needed. You need to understand how your actions materially make someone’s life better.

You need to see how the work you do, today, improves another’s world, tomorrow. You need validation that your efforts are not for nothing. That they mean something to someone.

The need to be needed is a basic human need. Your happiness and fulfillment depend on it. So, don’t be ashamed of this. Acknowledge it. Accept it. And look for things you can do to aid another human.