Are you at the "physiological", "safety", "belonging and love", "social needs", "esteem", or "self-actualization" level?

As I was thinking of balance and foundation, the Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs came to mind. Have you heard about it? Abraham Maslow introduced a psychological idea of basic needs that was illustrated in a pyramid design explaining human growth.

The proposed psychology idea is used by many researchers and psychologists to explain the behaviors of others. If you’re struggling in a relationship and looking for balance, take a look at the chart below.

Maslow originally proposed this idea in his 1943 paper “A Theory of Human Motivation” and the idea was fully expressed in the book “Motivation and Personality” that came out in 1955.

In order to experience self-fulfillment, the lower level of the pyramid must be completely satisfied before moving on to the next level. However, sometimes a level can be repeated depending on the season or chapter you’re in. Some people experience job loss or divorce. As a result, you may find yourself repeating certain levels throughout life.

Does this chart really help you understand balance or the stages of growth? I’ll leave that up to you to decide.