There are a large number of ways to introspect in order to satisfy certain needs. One of the most well-known is Maslow’s theory, according to which person necessities have levels from simpler to higher. Pursuing higher requirements usually occurs only after satisfying lower needs, such as food and security. In his work, Maslow puts forward the theory that all human needs have a hierarchical system and, at the same time, are innate. The approach consists of five levels of needs of different urgency and dominance. His pyramid of needs includes (Dohlman et al., 2019):
- Physiological needs (needs of the human body necessary for survival, such as sleep, food)
- Security needs (it includes safety, lack of threat, fear, and mess, stability, dependence)
- Belonging and love (such as family, friendship)
- Needs in recognition (one respects oneself, others respect them; he or she is famous in certain environment and needed)
- Self-actualization (development of abilities)
Maslow’s theory of needs is applied for introspection; with its benefit, it is easier to understand desires and structure goals. Maslow’s hierarchy helps one prioritize and find the fastest way to achieve one’s goals. Structuring needs and their visual description helps a person to prioritize different needs. The main issue is the consequence of individual needs; for example, a person whose need for communication is satisfied, he or she is indifferent and self-sufficient, will not strive for this need. The one who feels safe will not become even more enthusiastic about defending oneself. Generally, a particular need loses relevance if it is already satisfied and moves to another hierarchy level. Moreover, in order to determine the actual conditions, it is enough to identify the unmet ones.
Reference
Dohlman, L., DiMeglio, M., Hajj, J., & Laudanski, K. (2019). Global brain drain: How can the maslow theory of motivation improve our understanding of physician migration? International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(7), 1182. Web.