The Hierarchy Of Needs Part 1

When on the path of growth and self-discovery, there is a natural progression. This progression ncan be laid out in a pyramid, and each higher level is supported by the lower levels. Meeting thenneeds of each lower level allows the next level to be focused on, and allows growth to take place.
Ignoring a lower level or trying to skip lower levels will create an inbalance in our inner structurenand not allow us to grow naturally. It is imperative to maintain a good balance among the differentnlevels so that growth can happen as easily as possible.

This philosophy was created in the middle of the 20th century by a psychologist who had studiednsome of the greatest minds of the time. Based on Maslow's research, there are five basic needs thatnhave to be taken care of in order for growth in an upward manner to happen. The first four are tonbe taken care of in order for self-actualization to take place. The reason for this is that we neednto take care of our day to day needs and requirements in order for us to be able to realize ourntrue potential. If our daily needs are not met, large amounts of time and energy are put intontrying to maintain basic survival.

The first of these five which form the foundation are physiological in nature. This represents things nsuch as food, sleep, sex, water, and others. The second on the list is safety and includes security nof body, employment, and family to name a few. The third need going up the pyramid is love andnbelonging. This includes a significant other, family, friends, and a sense of belonging to a group.
Being a member of those we associate with. The fourth need is esteem. This includes a positive nself-perception as well as confidence. Achievement, respect of others, and respect by others.
The final need is self-actualization. This includes creativity, expression, morality, and many others.

The ability to take care of these basic needs allows one to move to higher levels of conciousnessnand expression in the world. This allows people to express themselves in the world in a way thatnis in accordance with true happiness and creativity. This is the realm that passion lives in. This isnwhere our goals can really take on a whole new meaning and realization. Having to spend to muchntime in any of the lower levels of need can take away from the time it takes to truly follow ones heartnand discover passion and accomplishment.

Take the time to evaluate where you are on the hierarchy and what needs are not being met. Be surento put together an honest evaluation of each as not being honest will only harm you and your growth.
It is important then to put together a strong strategy for getting the deficient needs to a level of basicnsurvival so that more energy and focus can be placed on the realization of dreams and goals. In thenfollowing parts, we will discuss each of the five levels and some strategies for bringing them intonbalance.