For any living thing, growth is life itself.

Humans have an innate need to grow, improve and learn. There’s nothing wrong with it – it’s only natural, after all. It’s one of the 6 Human Needs Tony Robbins says drive us all.

Think about your own desire for growth. Where does it show itself? Does it drive you to good things – only or mostly? Have you come upon any danger signs indicating you’re trying for too much too soon?

If you’re always pursuing growth, then you’ll avoid boredom and attachment to people or things, Tony says. You might thrive by pushing boundaries but want to move on too quickly from relationships. He recommends diving deep to master new topics or skills, and to remember the importance of emotional and spiritual growth through self-examination and meditation.

I know a lot of people who want to grow so much that they pursue it obsessively, neglecting other aspects of life – other human needs – that will bring them balance, peace and lasting success.

We can always be chasing “the next thing” – and never really appreciate what we have.

But if we cling too tightly to what we have, we’re blocking our human nature to grow.

It all comes down to choices and to balance. That’s a tricky dance for everyone.

But the solution is rooted in the same healthy habits that sustain us all and improve our chances of healthy growth: regular exercise; healthy diets; stress management; quality sleep.

You can’t grow without them.