Most of us have probably made some sort of resolution to improve our lives in a way big or small at some point; maybe around New Year, or when we see inspirational people such as the athletes competing in the Paris Olympics this year. However, all too often good intentions lead to a short burst of enthusiasm and progress, only to fizzle out a few weeks later.
This can result in us feeling frustrated and cross at our ‘weakness’, and it can reduce our motivation to try to make more lasting improvements. However, maybe a different approach that includes self-compassion and recognition of our efforts rather than stress and blame can help us to move forwards with greater positivity.
One psychological tool that can help us understand ourselves better is Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. Maslow was a humanist who introduced his idea in 1943 in a paper titled "A Theory of Human Motivation." Maslow believed that people have an innate desire to be “self actualised”; or in other words to be their best selves.
However, in order for us to achieve this ideal state, we need to meet our more basic needs first of all. His ideas are often expressed in the form of a pyramid, with the basic stuff we need for survival at the bottom, such as food, water and shelter.
On the next level are the primary needs that give us a sense of security and control over our lives, such as financial security, health and wellbeing, and protection from harm. If we don’t have one of these needs met, such as financial security, then we are motivated to look for a job.
The third level comprises our social needs, which are met through family, friends, and relationships. The fourth level is more complex, and involves our need for self-esteem and recognition. This could be through careers, academic achievements, sport or hobbies.
At the peak of the pyramid is self-actualisation, which is when we are able to achieve our full potential. This gives us the freedom and confidence to be creative, develop our talents, become an entrepreneur, or whatever it is that we were born to do. It is when we are our best selves, and to achieve this state we need to have most of the lower level needs met.
How can we apply Maslow’s theory to our lives?
While Maslow’s theory may not be possible to scientifically test, it’s certainly food for thought. By looking after our basic needs with good nutrition and hydration, adequate exercise, secure employment, and meaningful relationships with others, we can free ourselves to truly develop as people and fulfil our higher goals in life.
This may be through a creative endeavour, business success, or simply getting the most from our hobbies, career, or relationships. By clarifying our needs and understanding better how we can achieve them, we can find that elusive sense of purpose that keeps us working consistently towards a goal rather than letting our motivation levels dwindle as time goes on.
However, life is often complex and we may need some extra support from time to time, which may be achieved by working with a Harley Street therapist.
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