Level I: The first level of self-actualization has to do with meeting your
basic survival needs — air, water, food, and sleep. At this level, happiness
is more about having something to eat than it is about tender, loving care.
Level II: The second level of self-actualization has to do with safety and
can include everything from a safe neighborhood to a financial safety
net that comes from having a supportive family or by working hard to
put aside money for your retirement years.
Level III: The next level involves a sense of belonging — that is, feeling
loved and needed by others.
Level IV: The fourth level has to do with self-esteem. Do you feel like you’re
respected and appreciated by others? Do you like and respect yourself?
Level V: The final level Maslow calls self-actualization. In essence, you’re
there, you’ve arrived, you’ve reached your full potential, and you are
your happiest, most unique, most creative self. Classic examples of selfactualized
people include Thomas Jefferson, Florence Nightingale, Albert
Schweitzer, Albert Einstein, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Mother Teresa.
