Maslow’s Needs Hierarchy

Since the dawn of time, mankind has used time in innumerably diverse fashions; but the original objectives of timekeeping remained consistent across geographies and cultures. To understand how time management is linked to a human being’s five basic needs, Abraham Maslow’s needs hierarchy provides an interesting explanation.  How does the Human Needs Hierarchy relate to time management?

Maslow's Hierarchy

A system of living known as Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs was laid out by Abraham Maslow in an article that was published in 1943. The hierarchy of needs developed by Maslow can now be effectively used to develop time management in one’s life. The theory laid out five distinct levels of needs which, fulfilled in an order of priority, can help with an improved self-esteem and joy. A pyramid of needs is laid out by the theory, which starts with the very basic requirements; for example, food and shelter. The practitioner is expected to work their way up the pyramid to a culmination point called self-actualization. If you can fulfill everything that is within your capability, you have attained self-actualization.

Time Management and Maslow

The system provides an interesting checkpoint to look back at your life. What levels of needs have you already attained? Which ones still needs to be earned to reach a higher level of needs hierarchy? The knowledge which comes out of this checkpoint provides an interesting insight into where should one concentrate their time and energy on. What should be his priority with respect to time management?

An assumption that Maslow’s theory makes is that your needs keeps you motivated. Those needs are then divided in five different levels of a pyramid. The flat bottom end of the pyramid represents the most basic of those needs. The level of needs represented by the bottom of the pyramid needs to be attained first. The objective can then move to the next level in the pyramid once the level below is attained. The pyramid tapers into a culminating point where an individual realizes self-actualization.

Motivation is Key for Successful Time Management

A thought provoking connection becomes apparent when Maslow’s theory is linked to time management. The theory provides effective insight which is helpful to make one realize their priorities. When applying the Eisenhower method, the means to determine what is “important” can be weighed based on ones needs.  For example, when one’s basic needs are met can he start concentrating on more complex needs? If you can realize which level of need you are at, it becomes easier to identify where the individual’s time and energy need to be expended - obviously on needs at a higher level!

The ability to identify the level of need that requires most attention results in a state of self-awareness which can be in turn used to harness all your concentrated attention on one objective - the next level of need. It offers a level of introspection which is critical to identify what needs to be done, when. Your objectives then become singular and less disparate, scattered, and ineffective. To be able to attain eventual success and a higher level of inner peace, you need to know where you are now; don’t you?