Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
Ditesh introduced to the Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs by a long while ago, and I have always referred to it whenever I am feeling most depressed. I use it as a sort of a compass to reevaluate myself.
If you are unfamiliar with the Hierarchy of Needs, it basically divides up a humans most ‘basic needs’ into a pyramid, from where a person can build themselves up to reach a state of self actualization. Like reaching zen!
Simplified Hierarchy:
- Physiological - breathing, food, water, sex, sleep, homeostasis, excretion
- Safety - security of body, of employment of resources, of morality, of the family, of health, of property
- Love/Belonging - friendship, family, sexual intimacy
- Esteem - self-esteem, confidence, achievement, respect of others, respect by others
- Self Actualization - morality, creativity, spontaneity, problem solving, lack of prejudice, acceptance of facts
Now I don’t take it word for word, as I believe there are some flaws in the hierarchy of needs. Especially in the point that one needs to fulfill the lower needs to move on to the next one.
Note: The Forer and Lake Wobegone effect may be present in the rest of this article. Be weary of overconfidence. Discretion is advised.
If Self Actualization is the goal of the human in question, then I’ve met people who have overcome one or more levels of the Hierarchy.
I see the Hierarchy more as objectives that need to be fulfilled (not in that necessary order) to reach Self Actualization. Though certain ones most definitely need to be accomplished before the others can be reached, primarily the Physiological, and Safety.
I personally feel that I have reached self actualization a few times previously, while missing a level completely. Though I didn’t stay in that state for a pro longed period of time. As certain events in my life, would easily rock the boat, and throw me overboard.
If I had established the other levels, or created the foundations/base first before reaching self actualization, would the state of self actualization not be interrupted?
What are your opinions? Have you reached self actualization while missing certain levels? What happened after that?
