Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

The period of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs it very interesting to me.

I thought it was interesting that the "Belongingness & Love Needs" are in the middle of the pyramid. I think Maslow hit it right on the nose when he put these needs there because our family, affection, relationships, and work life really do seem to be at the center of our lives. In addition, I think if that area of our lives are fulfilled then the rest of the needs above are met such as esteem needs and self actualization. In addition the needs below this are sometimes met because of our relationships - our family may provide us with security and protection and basic needs. To take a look at our lives in the terms of these different categories can be a great way to gage if we are living the lives we want to be living.

It is also interesting to consider how we as individuals affect our neighbors needs and when we can fill needs of others. For example, providing basic needs to even those homeless people that we don't even know can be a great way to reach our own self-actualization. In addition think of the people in your lives whom you can touch and improve their feelings of belongingness by simply shooting them a text or writing on their facebooks or whatever to say hello. With all the technology these days and all the opportunities many of us have and take for granted there is no reason why we cant help others achieve their best lives.