Have you ever heard of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs?

It is a motivational theory in Psychology which depicts human needs as being organized in hierarchical levels within a Pyramid. At the base are our Physiological needs: food water, warmth and rest. Then follow Safety Needs, Belongingness and Love needs, Esteem needs and finally Self-actualization.

Why the Pyramid? Well Maslow wants to remind us that unless we are tending to our primary, base needs, we won’t be able to fulfil those higher ones. That also means that before we can feel loved and as if we belong in a group, we must feel safe there. And before we think about achieving our full potential, we must check that all the underlying needs are met.

You can read more about each of the levels of this hierarchy and start reflecting upon whether you are meeting those needs in your own life!