The Solution

The question to be answered is how to feel fulfilled wherever we are in the Maslo’s Hierarchy of Needs.

If we look at the hierarchy of needs, then we can also interpret the following

1) Survival Needs are all bodily needs/physical needs.

2) Belonging needs and self esteem needs (Psychological needs) are all needs of the mind.

3) Self actualization needs are the needs of the part of us that looks for deeper meaning, connection or better put the needs of the soul.

In order for us to feel fulfilled completely, we need to be fulfilled at each stage of these stages.

1) Physical needs – The body needs to function at an optimum level to avoid disease and dysfunction. The body needs nutrition to do the same. Eating right, resting and allowing ourselves breaks at regular intervals works just about right. However, there is lots of controversy on what is right for our body and what is not? One research tells us that a certain vitamin is good for us and another research refutes it. How do I decide what is the right food for my body?

2) Psychological needs – The mind needs to feel in control of any situation. Our mind has intellectual needs. Our mind loves to conclude, stereotype and put people and situations in boxes for its own better functioning. Our mind is not used to uncertainty and would go to any length to make an uncertain situation very certain or conclude-able. When the mind cannot control the situation, it goes into fear which induces anxiety. Our mind is wired for separateness in identity. Our mind works on knowable patterns and hence it’s hard to change old behaviours, patterns and mindsets.

3) Soul needs – The soul looks for varied experiences, meaning in everything and deeper connections with the self and the world in general. Our soul craves for intimacy with the “other”. The soul has emotional and spiritual needs. Our soul is wired for connection.