Therapy Corner | Maslow’s Hierarchy

Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is an idea in psychology proposed by Abraham Maslow in 1943. In his paper, he observed human motivation in five categories of needs that determine an individual’s behavior.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

  1. Physiological needs: food, water, warmth, rest

  2. Safety needs: security, safety

  3. Love and belonging needs: intimate relationships, friendships, familial relationships

  4. Esteem needs: prestige, feeling of accomplishment, confidence, respect

  5. Self-actualization needs: achieving one’s full potential, creative activities, acceptance, spirituality

Human motivation is driven by the pursuit of these five needs starting from the base level of physiological needs and moving up as we develop and fulfill our needs. We are motivated to fulfill our basic needs first until we can pursue our self-actualization needs of personal growth, pursuing dreams and seeking happiness.

What Maslow’s hierarchy demonstrates is that everybody develops at different rates. Development can be impacted on whether needs were met in developmental years. Someone recovering from trauma can become frozen in a stage while the person next to them progresses towards actualization. Often, the impact of trauma is invisible.

Life is not a race, competition or game, we’re just containers of energy having an experience. If you feel stuck or lost, ask yourself what needs aren’t being fulfilled so you can better take care of yourself from the inside out.

Today’s challenge: Hold space for your own inner growth and be kind. Acknowledge and listen to your needs.


Therapy Corner is an exploration of topics in psychology that I find interesting and relevant for my own internal growth. Perhaps some of these insights will prove beneficial for you or start an internal dialogue.

Disclaimer: I am not a licensed therapist or psychologist. These statements are not intended to diagnose or treat. Please seek professional help if you are struggling. Call 911 or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255. If you are local to Georgia, call the Georgia Crisis & Access Line (GCAL) 1-800-715-4225.

You can also send me a message here.

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