Maslow’s hierarchy of needs and improvement of life
Maslow’s theory of hierarchy of needs holds that individuals exhibit a pyramidal hierarchy of needs that are arranged from the bottom to the top and which must be satisfied for one to transcend to the next level. According to the theory, humans are always motivated to seek the needs of the next level with an aim of bettering their lives if the needs in the former level are met adequately.
The physiological necessities, which are at the bottom of the pyramid, are the most crucial since they enhance survival of an individual. The needs include food and water for metabolic functioning of the body, clothes and shelter, which are critical in guaranteeing safety of individuals. Once the survival needs are met, an individual’s life is likely to be good since it is guaranteed. Such individuals are likely to work on other aspects of lives that can help in improving their wellbeing. In addition, this essential needs helps in improvement in live since they play a critical role in the reduction of mortality rate, which is a positive indicator for a society with improved life.
Safety, which is the second aspect in the hierarchy, can be satisfied through the avoidance of activities that can lead to war, control of natural catastrophes and improvement of homeland security. They are principally aimed at improving the lives of individuals in the society. Furthermore, reduction of experiences in the society like abuse of children and domestic violence contribute peaceful living. Development of strategies geared towards community safety enhancement is pertinent in preventing traumatic experiences in the society that may lead to stress related ailments that may be fatal. Besides personal safety, it is imperative for the authority to put in place structures that will ensure that both financial and safety well-being of members of the society is guaranteed thus making the society a better place to live in while at the same time improving the quality of life.
Love and personal belonging is the third and most crucial aspect of the Maslow’s hierarchy. If this level is adequately fulfilled, an individual is likely to exhibit attitudes towards the rest of the society. This can be achieved through establishment of friendships for enhancing relationships with the rest of the community. According to Maslow, a positive sense of acceptance and belonging helps in developing connections that may help in enhancing cooperation among individuals and working together for the common good of the society. This improves production especially at work places.
Respect is crucial in boosting self-esteem and improving life lives. This helps individuals to engage in professions or vocations. Some of the vocations can act as sources of livelihood that may improve the well-being of members of the society. Recognition also improves the confidence and autonomy of people.
Self-actualization is a state of individual realizing and fulfilling their potential and goals. If this level is adequately satisfied, one is likely to have innovative attitudes that may help in production of new ideas that may help in improving the quality of life.
Maslow further developed self-transcendence that proposed that one should focus on higher objectives other than the self that focuses on using his or her achievements to reach out to other members of the society thus benefiting the entire society. This strategy is critical in ensuring the whole society benefits due to innovations or successes of one individual.