Idea 30: Maslow's hierarchy of needs
If you know the nature of water it is easier to row a boat.
Chinese proverb
A sketch map of individual needs – which is useful for managers when considering individuals – can be drawn from Maslow's hierarchy of needs (first developed in 1954). Nevertheless, you should remember that his theory does not fully appreciate individual differences or the fact that each person has a unique set of needs and values.
Maslow identified five motivating factors in his hierarchy of needs and indicated that as each need is satisfied, others then emerge. He identified:
- Physiological needs (including hunger, thirst, sleep).
- Safety needs (security and protection from danger).
- Social needs (belonging, acceptance, social life, ...
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