The

Hierarchy of

Needs

Published in 1943, Dr. Abraham Maslow published his theory that explains human motivation as a progression that extends from satisfying the most basic life-sustaining needs into more complex ambitions. If you want to read all 28 glorious pages, you may do so here.

However, if you don’t want to read 28 pages of psychological theory from the 1940s, we get that. The basic gist of the hierarchy theory is that people naturally transgress from one element to the next. So, let’s go over the different levels…

Physiological Needs - These are your basic survival needs, the ability to breathe and sleep and eat and whatnot. If these are not met, you are experiencing an immediate crisis.

Safety Needs - You can consider these you basic daily needs. A safe home, a job that sustains your expenses. If these needs go unmet, you will slip back into crisis.

Love & Belongingness - We all need oxytocin. Oxytocin is the chemical that is released in our brain when we feel loved. It can come from people and animals. When your safety needs are met, it is natural we seek support from others.

Esteem Needs - The theory goes, that with each level of achievement we will naturally move on to address new needs. Esteem needs are met when we feel appreciated.

Self-Actualization Needs - This level is reached when all other needs are satisfied and a desire for improvement grows.