I think this is a basic theory that most people have heard of. It harkens back to where we are as humans, so it is widely applied in our lives, beyond therapy but also in marketing, business... anything that appeals to wants rather than needs. Yeah, Maslow’s hierarchy.
Most people know that actualisation is when you are truly living your life, making an impact -- but what does that say for the rest of us who are hanging by the skin of our teeth? For example, as I examine my needs along this paradigm, I’m stuck at level 2. Is it then such a wonder that I cannot even begin to feel safe in my relationships with others? Is it even a question to why imposter syndrome has a prevalent occurrence in my thoughts?
So what do I mean by level 2? Well, it says “safety” through security, health and finances. I am currently earning an unsustainable salary, in which I am looking forward to improving once I complete probation and will be eligible for commissions. But as of now, that financial security is clearly absent. I am not healthy, as in I am a little overweight, and my eczema can flare-up at the drop of a hat. So no, I do not feel like my body is in control. Lastly, security in my home - well that is one of the better ones. Living in HK, the crime rates are low, yet there is a constant threat of CCP’s tightening reins on what our city pride ourselves in -- freedom of speech. I can ignore it, but news is absorbed unconsciously, and with the internet, it’s hard to avoid it even if you mean to, so imagine not even aggressively avoiding it...
According to Maslow, one cannot achieve the next level without the previous being fulfilled. Yet it can be partially fulfilled -- the unfilled previous steps would manifest in the form of anxiety. This theory is very well enacted in my life... so I wonder, does it make that much sense to you all too?