Harmony

Also known as accord, concord

The need for relationships and environments to be free of discord and conflict. A sense of things fitting together peacefully.

When met or unmet

When met

  • Relationships flowing smoothly
  • Elements fitting together
  • Peace with surroundings

When unmet

  • Discord and conflict in relationships
  • Things clashing
  • Disharmony in environment

Common expressions

I want peace and harmony Why can't we all get along? The conflict is exhausting

Strategies

  • Addressing conflicts before they fester
  • Creating environments that feel peaceful
  • Finding ways to honour different needs simultaneously
  • Choosing relationships that support peace

Recognition questions

  • Is there conflict or discord in my relationships or environment?
  • Do things feel like they fit together or clash?
  • Am I at peace with the people around me?

Somatic markers

When met

  • A sense of everything fitting together
  • Relaxation and peace in the body
  • Ease in relationships

When unmet

  • Tension from discord
  • Discomfort at conflict
  • Longing for peace

Shadow side

  • Avoiding necessary conflict to maintain false harmony
  • Suppressing your own needs to keep the peace
  • Controlling others to maintain harmony

Cultural considerations

Harmony is valued across cultures but approaches differ: confronting conflict to resolve it vs avoiding conflict to maintain surface harmony.

Related needs

Often confused with

Balance

Balance is internal equilibrium; harmony is about external relationships fitting together.

Peace

Peace is internal stillness; harmony is about external relationships and elements fitting together.

See also

In tension with