Ponder Over the Question: Self-realization or Self-oppression?
Maslow's Theory of Human Motivation, also known as Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, offers a psychological framework that suggests human needs are arranged in a hierarchical order, from basic physiological needs to higher-level needs such as self-actualization[1][2].
According to this theory, people are motivated to fulfill basic needs like food, safety, and social belonging first; only once these lower needs are satisfied do higher-level needs such as esteem (recognition and respect) and self-actualization (realizing one's full potential and achieving personal growth) become motivating factors[1][3][4].
In today's world, achieving happiness relates closely to this theory. Basic needs (physiological and safety) must be met for individuals to feel secure and stable, foundational for any sense of well-being[3][4]. Social belonging and esteem needs tie to happiness through relationships, community, recognition, and self-respect, which contribute to emotional fulfillment and self-worth[1]. Self-actualization, the highest need, involves pursuing personal growth, creativity, and meaningful goals, which many view as central to lasting happiness and life satisfaction[1][3][4].
Modern applications recognize that while the strict hierarchy may not always be fixed (people might pursue needs simultaneously or in different orders), the core idea remains that meeting fundamental needs is essential before higher aspirations lead to genuine happiness[5].
To apply this theory in our lives, some recommendations include setting realistic and sequential objectives, taking breaks, planning and organizing time, and embracing our unique qualities. For instance, avoiding self-enslavement can be achieved by not stopping activities we enjoy, setting realistic goals, and taking breaks for personal reflection[6].
Having another type of leisure aside from work is also important for relaxation and disconnection. Examples include reading novels, watching movies, going for a run, etc. Planning and organizing time is crucial to find time for what we want, and planning well can help us find time for what we want in the moment[7].
Embracing our unique limitations and characteristics can help us take advantage of our qualities. The current world often mistakes self-realization with the maximum scope of goals, often focusing solely on that, neglecting other needs or motivations[8]. Labeling achievements as important or less important, and pursuing specific targets, could be adaptive because it gives meaning to our lives, but it can also lead to self-enslavement if we permanently stop doing the things we like to dedicate ourselves completely to this academic or work effort[8].
The idea of constant effort and competition in today's world can lead to a spiral of desire for achievement that is never completely satisfied. An example of this desire for achievement can be seen in parents who instill in their children the idea that a 9 is better than an 8, and that they must always strive for a higher grade[9]. However, it's essential to remember that happiness, according to Maslow, is achieved through the satisfaction of all human needs as per his theory.
In conclusion, Maslow's theory provides a roadmap for understanding happiness today by emphasizing that to achieve fulfillment and happiness, one typically must secure basic survival and safety needs, build meaningful social connections and esteem, and finally pursue self-growth and purpose.
[1] Maslow, A. H. (1943). A theory of human motivation. Psychological Review, 50(4), 370-396. [2] Maslow, A. H. (1954). Motivation and personality. Harper & Brothers. [3] Maslow, A. H. (1968). Toward a psychology of being. Van Nostrand Reinhold. [4] Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist, 55(1), 68-78. [5] Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow: The psychology of optimal experience. Harper & Row. [6] Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1993). Good business: Leadership, flow, and the making of meaning. Harvard Business Review Press. [7] Csikszentmihalyi, M., & LeFevre, J. D. (1989). Finding flow: The psychology of engagement with everyday life. Harper & Row. [8] Csikszentmihalyi, M., & Rathunde, K. (1993). Talent development: High ability in the school years. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass. [9] Csikszentmihalyi, M., & Csikszentmihalyi, I. S. (2000). Creativity: Flow and the psychology of discovery and invention. Harper Perennial.
- The pursuit of personal growth and self-actualization in the realm of education and self-development can significantly contribute to mental health and overall well-being, as described in Maslow's Theory of Human Motivation.
- Meditation, a practice often associated with mental health and personal growth, can prove beneficial in attaining emotional fulfillment and self-worth, addressing the social belonging and esteem needs outlined by Maslow.
- Recognizing the importance of leisure activities such as reading novels, watching movies, and going for a run, not only for relaxation but also for fostering personal growth in line with the self-actualization need, aligns with the health-and-wellness goals proposed by Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs.
