I found this really interesting because John discusses self motivation in class all the time and this seemed like a good topic to blog about. The psychologist Abraham Maslow came out with his Need Hierarchy Theory in 1943. The theory was based on his observations of a few neurotic individuals. Maslow came to the conclusion that motivation os based upon five basic needs. The five basic needs are the following:
1) Physiological
2) Safety
3) Love
4) Esteem
5) Self- actualization
The needs are steps; one on top of another in the shape of a pyramid. Physiological being the most basic need is on the bottom of the pyramid. It includes having enough basic essentials to survive such as air, food, and water. Once physiological need is met, the next step is safety. Safety entailing that one is safe from physical and psychological harm. Once safety is secure, the need to be love is next in the pyramid of needs. People have the need to belong and be affectionate. the next step is esteem. Esteem means recognition from others and also self confidence and strength. The last step of this hierarchy is self actualization meaning becoming the best one is capable of becoming. According to Maslow, this hierarchy process is how people are motivated. It is still just a theory, but it gives some insight to managers and employees to how motivation probably works. It allows managers to find ways to motivate his/her employees by following the steps and it allows individuals to learn how to self motivate themselves by knowing physiologically what needs are first, second, etc.
The article "Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs" found on the NetMBA website goes into more detail and how it can be used by businesses.
"Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs."http://www.netmba.com/mgmt/ob/motivation/maslow/
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X, I also thought that Maslow's Needs Hierarchy was an interesting tool that company's use to provide self-motivation. It sounds like a simple structure and would not be to hard to apply at the work place. Although, trying to do this in at a company with many employees may be a bit tougher. People have many different personalities and everybody has different needs. A person's demographic, religious views, and upbringing can all have an affect how people react to situations or events. I do believe the pyramid structure of Maslow's hierarchy needs can be successful, but it has to be different for all individuals.
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