If you’ve ever flown on an airplane, you may recall being told to apply oxygen to yourself before assisting others. This perfectly demonstrates the notion that we won't be able to help others if we aren’t taking care of ourselves.
Abraham Maslow introduced what he called the ‘hierarchy of needs’ in which he proposed that people have 5 groups of needs that must be met to achieve self-actualization, the best version of themselves. He postulated that people are motivated to be and do better and to get there means they are actively working to get every need met first.
His assertions are illustrated in the form of a pyramid that lists physiological needs at the bottom with safety needs above it, love and belonging in the middle, esteem second to the top, followed with self-actualization at the pinnacle. By meeting the needs of one area, his theory suggests that one can move up the pyramid in pursuit of becoming the best version of themselves.
Whether or not you may agree with Maslow on his theory, there is plenty to be taken from his personal experiences and studies into motivation. His contributions have heavily influenced Positive Psychology and preceding theories and studies that focus on the question of how to achieve wellbeing and lead the most fulfilling life.
There are many beneficial practices from Positive Psychology that we should all implement including questioning our own motivations and practicing self-care. If anything can be learned, it is that we are all individuals with unique perspectives and interests and thus should consider our own needs so we can then help others to meet theirs.
These ideologies aren't just held by esteemed theorists, they are held by some of the most successful and influential people as well. Warren Buffet (CEO of Berkshire Hathaway) has become a figure in business that some may aspire to, but he has been quoted doting on the importance of respecting one's body and mind when talking to a group of Omaha students. An excerpt can be read below.
It is normal to question ourselves and lack confidence at times. We may feel inclined to think poorly of ourselves and feel negatively about our image or actions. During these times, we should ask ourselves if we would say the things we're thinking about ourselves to a loved one. The idea is to treat ourselves as well as we would a loved one. And when we aren't feeling good about ourselves, it is hard to make others feel good about themselves. But when we are feeling our best, we want others to feel as good as we do.
So during this holiday season, relish in the time you have with your loved ones and take some time for yourself. Take a break and prioritize your own health and wellbeing, physical and psychological.
Comments