Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and You

This article revolves around Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

I’m not an expert on humanistic psychology, however I’ve been quite interested in Maslow’s works.

The first four layers of his original five stage model (see image) are what Maslow calls deficiency needs, this is where the individual would be content when these needs are filled, but if not (or deficient) they would progress to negative emotions (anxiousness, stress etc). The fifth layer is that of Self-actualisation, this is where the individual would break free and begin to take control of their life instead of just experiencing it, Generation Y is a great example of what is becoming a self-actualising society.

What confused me with the first four layers is that if the individual is constantly aware that his needs are being fulfilled – by either himself or another party – then he/she would have gratitude towards such fulfilment, therefore, instead of feeling neutral towards the needs he or she would feel positive emotions. Perhaps this is the self-actualised person in action.

Also according to his needs each of the first four layers has to be satisfied before the fifth psychological need can begin to be fulfilled. With the loss of fear could the individual concentrate on the fifth need? As far as I am aware all of the first four needs are based on fear, the fear of loss (deficiency). If we were by will able to shed this fear of loss we should be able to self-actualise. However upon doing that, all other need layers would easily fall into place.

Plant trees with your kids. Lots of them!

When I was young and going through primary school I lived on a farm in North Eastern Victoria. We kept sheep and cattle and the odd crop of oats or lucerne. Half way through my time there my step father (owner of the farm) with the (monetary) support of a local environmental group decided to plant native saplings along each fence of each paddock. I hated this job, digging, planting, digging, constant watering, more digging. We spent weeks on end doing this and after planting I used to miss my other farm chores.

15 years later I revisited the farm. We had split the property into several smaller pieces and sold it off. As I drove up the long unsealed driveway the work I did so long ago was now a huge part of the farm. Tall thick foliage lined the wire fences separating each section of land, the now large trees were home to many bird species as well as providing shade to livestock. Looking at the distance I could see the other tree lines lining the horizon.

That experience taught me that everything you do makes a difference, be it positive or negative. The only factor is time. We’re all aware how our environment is degrading, do something about it, even if it doesn’t seem worth it. Plant more trees in your garden – natives are very water friendly. Compost your leftovers, trade in your car for an economical one. You don’t even have to step outside your comfort zone to help out, but if you want to there are plenty of groups that donate their time and money to give back to something that supports your amazing life!

Blog Action Day

-- Shamelessly taken from http://blogactionday.org/

On October 15th, bloggers around the web will unite to put a single important issue on everyone’s mind - the environment. Every blogger will post about the environment in their own way and relating to their own topic. Our aim is to get everyone talking towards a better future.

If you have a blog, write something about the environment, anything. Might spur on something else that you can write about :)

3 Quotes on Happiness

Happiness is not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort.

- Franklin D. Roosevelt

Don't expect objects, money, love to bring you happiness;
Feel the happiness first and the rest will come!

- Dave Willison

Action may not always bring happiness; but there is no happiness without action.

- Benjamin Disraeli

How to Beat Procrastination

We all have days when no matter what we try to do, we just can't keep our focus and motivation on the task. We get distracted by the simplest thoughts and end up delaying our original objective.

The first step to beating procrastination is to recognise it, are you saying yes to other less important tasks? Do you sit down to start the task, then get up to make a coffee? Be honest with yourself and you can identify it easily.

Why are we procrastinating? Is it because we find the task unpleasant or simply because we are feeling flat and un-energetic? Perhaps it is because you don't know where to begin, if this is the case, start anywhere, write a few words on a pad, draw a mindmap (we will cover this in future issues).

A few key ideas to help you control your procrastination are:

Discipline. Simply put, just force yourself to get the task done, you might not enjoy it, but it gets easier with time.

Rewards. Promise yourself something enjoyable if you make particular milestones in the task. A treat or well deserved break.

Peer Pressure. This is a great motivator, get someone else to check on your progress now and then. You seem to strive to live up to other people's expectations more than your own.

Use these techniques, and create your own. It will get easier with practice.