Abraham Maslow’s well-known and highly respected Hierarchy of Needs theory describes five level of needs. What does Maslow’s theory have to do with leadership?
If we do not understand peoples’ needs, we do not understand people. We will explore Maslow’s hierarchy and how it may helpful to us in this two-part series. Let’s look at the needs are in order of importance, beginning with the basic needs: 
- Physiological needs – basic needs of air, food, water, shelter, sex, and relief and/or avoidance of pain.
- Safety needs – after the basic needs are met, safety and security must be met.
- Belongingness or Social needs – after safety needs are met, we want to feel connections with people.
- Esteem needs – after social needs are met, we desire self-respect, status, and recognition for our accomplishments.
- Self-Actualization needs – the highest level of needs is the development of our full potential. To achieve this sense of fulfillment, we seek to understand and grow, to find meaning in our work and our lives.
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is based on three assumptions (a) only unmet needs motivate, (b) needs are hierarchical in nature, basic to complex, and (c) lower level needs must be met before moving to a higher-order need.
On Thursday, we will go into detail on specifically how these needs impact our ability to inspire, influence, and connect with those whom we lead.
Love and Success,
Maria
Content copyright 2012. Dr. Maria J. Church. All rights reserved.