You\u2019ve heard of Maslow\u2019s Hierarchy of Needs, right? As a theory in the psychology of human motivation, it outlines the 5 tiers of basic human needs. The premise is that the needs at the top of the pyramid only become sought after needs once those at the base of the pyramid have been met. It\u2019s relatively simple at face value. The nuance to this theory comes in when you understand that on top of each layer or basic need is a thin crust of security that sediments that need into place in order to free human desire up so that it may freely focus on achieving the desire beyond it. Without the security or assurance that the need below is met \u2013 we don’t have the capacity to focus on a loftier need like self-actualisation and creative expression.<\/p>\n
Here\u2019s the thing about the physiological needs\u00a0\u2013 food, water, warmth and rest, and security and safety; in the base section of the pyramid \u2013 they are not needs we can ever hope to fulfil without planet Earth. This planet provides us with food and water and so in the broader, long-term sense, this is our home,\u00a0<\/em>not the roof over our heads. Without Earth, a peaceful non-destructive environment \u2013 we have no security of continued life, the continued existence of our species.<\/p>\n While some of you may be building ambitious New Years\u2019 goals in career orientation, personal growth and health and fulfilling relationships \u2013 take a second to turn deeply inwards and ask yourself how certain are you in the security and protection of your planetary home, to the assurance that there will be a home here for your children? What value is there in only working towards a 10 or 20-year vision for your career if you\u2019re not also doing everything in your power to ensure that the earth will still be a viable home for decades to come.<\/p>\n