Maslow’s hierarchy of needs 

What is it?
Maslows hierarchy of needs is a theory written by Abraham Maslow that suggest that motivation is based on 5 levels of needs which include 

Physiological needs-food, water, shelter 

Safety needs-security and stability 

Love and belonging-friendship, intimacy 

Esteem needs-self-respect, recognition  

Self-actualization-achieving one’s full potential  

How does this apply to me? 

As a high school student Maslow’s hierarchy can be used to better understand your needs and goals. First students need the basics like sleep, food, security so they can focus on school. School is also a place where you build friendships referring to the love and belonging part of the pyramid. In school you can set goals and celebrate achievements whether it’s passing a test or making it on a sports team which correlates with the esteem needs of the hierarchy. Finally, students can push towards self-actualization by planning their future and trying new things. By using Maslow’s hierarchy high school students can become motivated and ready to succeed. 

I interviewed a few students, asking them where they are on the pyramid and how they can move to the next level. 

Mia Ganez- “I think I’m at the self-esteem level. To reach the next level can work on being more confident and prouder of myself.” 

Miajade Ramos: “I think I’m in between love and belonging and self-esteem. To move up, i can focus on believing in myself more and setting certain goals.” 

Christal Nelson: “I’m at the self-fulfillment stage. To keep growing, I can keep setting goals and learning new things.”