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In 1943 an American psychologist, Abraham Maslowe developed a concept called the “Hierarchy Of Needs”. Basically, Maslowe postulated that humans are driven by certain “Needs” in a certain order (hierarchy) of importance.
On the bottom of the pyramid is “Physiological Needs” referring to the need for food, water, shelter and other bare necessities for human survival. This is followed by ‘Safety Needs” such as health concerns, financial stability, freedom from fear, etc. The third tier in the hierarchy is “Needs For Belonging”. This includes concepts like friendship, community, love, shared experiences and anything that gives humans a sense of belonging among themselves. The next hierarchy tier is “Esteem Needs”. Esteem, in this sense, refers to a person’s sense of self and their sense of self in relation to others. This level includes things like dignity, personal achievement and maybe even a sense of prestige in a certain area/profession. The final tier is “Self-Actualization” needs. Self-actualization can mean many things, but many of the examples center around a desire to explore, create or expand one’s skills. Concepts like beauty, aesthetics and discovery translate into real-world examples like art, learning a new language, refining one’s talents and becoming the best one can be.
Although Maslowe’s concept dates back over 80 years, I believe we all can see that these “needs” certainly drive our behavioral patterns more or less in this order of priority. So, given this represents the normal human condition, where does the seeking of ice cream, candy, all you can eat buffets and other unhealthy eating patterns fit into this “Hierarchy Of Needs”? Well, I believe that Maslowe did not take into account the human nature tendencies to do things that provide an immediate “feel-good”. Whether this be the quest for sex or high-caloric foods, we certainly are all prone to seeking immediate gratification.
During a long term weight control journey we all must battle certain “needs” along the way and although the weight-derailing foods and drinks are not on Maslowe’s list, they are on Posner’s. We do NOT need ice cream, candy, booze and other similar things to stay alive and enjoy life. Keep them off your “Hierarchy Of Needs”.
And here is one of the top 5 songs of 1943…enjoy a holiday standard by Bing Crosby.
