Maslow

I agree with Maslow. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is a brilliant illustration of man’s struggle in life. Maslow’s theory is the evolvement of Frankl’n s theory. Particularly certain aspects of Maslow’s esteem needs (second to the top) and all parts of self actualization (recognizing one’s full potential) echo Frankl’s search for meaning. Each level motivates a person to achieve more (Meyers, 2004). Maslow’s theory is logical and I agree with it. I will give a relative “real world” example to demonstrate why I agree.

I wake up in the morning and satisfy my physiological needs by eating breakfast. This provides energy and motivation. Next as I turn off my house alarm to go start my truck, I begin to think of my rather predictable day. I am motivated by the fact that I have some power over my daily outcome. With my safety needs met I kiss my loving family goodbye and reset the alarm. Their love and compassion energizes my emotional needs. I arrive at work and enjoy the morning camaraderie of my peers. We work together as a team to achieve our goals while demonstrating respect for each individual. My esteem needs are met which motivates me to achieve my fullest potential while delivering service at work. We complete our emergency calls and feel that we lived up to our own potential (sometimes we get a little arrogant with this).

Had one of my lower needs not been met things could have gone awry. If I had not met my physiological needs I would have no energy or focus which might cause me to not reset my house alarm. I would arrive at work being concerned for my stomach and wondering if I set that alarm or not. My irritability would shine through damaging my morning camaraderie and probably make me feel alienated. This would damage my esteem because some people would avoid me and my cantankerous outlook. I would return from calls wondering if I did my best or not.

Billy
Works Cited

Meyers, D. G. (2004). Psychology Seventh Edition in Modules. New York: Worth Publishers.