Hierarchy Of Needs | The pyramid to Self-Actualization

Maslow’s Hierarchy Of Needs |

Maybe you’ve heard of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs? In short, it’s a motivational theory explaining the things we desire most—portrayed as levels within a pyramid. 

Security + Certainty | Physical Safety + Wellbeing

Starting at the bottom of the pyramid, we can see that the needs are essential. They include simple physiological needs such as shelter, water, and food.

Moving upward along the hierarchy of needs, a consistent flow of resources, along with feelings of security, are what we want. This includes some form of basic financial security (monetary resources, career, job) and a physical environment with no immediate sense of danger.

Relationship + Connection | Emotional Security + Belonging

Once the minimums of the hierarchy of needs are met, we want to feel love or, at the very least, a sense of connection within a social group or tribe, which we can experience through all kinds of relationships (friendships, work partnerships, romantic, etc.). 

Impact + Significance | Growth + Self-Actualization

When we feel significant, we know that our efforts are making an impact on the world and that those that are on the receiving end of our actions are going to benefit greatly. These feelings create momentum for action and a clear path towards self-actualization and growth!

What is Self-Actualization?

Self-Actualization is a process of growth that elevates our talents and creativity into legitimate, measurable success. It’s the complete realization of becoming and being our greatest possible version. This includes nurturing our personal potential and the development of abilities, along with a deep appreciation for life.

This idea is at the top of the hierarchy of needs, and not every human reaches it. According to Maslow, “Self-actualization is growth-motivated rather than deficiency-motivated.”

This means that things are happening because we really want them to, not because of need. So instead of something being a driving force, it’s a desire. And more specifically, it’s a desire to become everything that we are capable of becoming.

So, what about the things that we want most? It all depends on your individual personal standards.

Hierarchy of Needs: Your Standards

Are you interested in learning more about Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and how personal standards affect your potential to experience self-actualization and growth?

  • Security + Certainty — The roots of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
  • Relationship + Connection — The fundamentals of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
  • Impact + Significance + Self-Actualization (Growth) — The most compelling levels of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Get the article here.

by Cherilyn Cole
author + your direct connect @ GrowthLenses

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