When Organizations Are Unstable, They Can't Grow

Maslow's hierarchy of needs is a theory in psychology proposed by Abraham Maslow in his 1943 paper "A Theory of Human Motivation." It has become a foundational theory in psychology in terms of optimizing the human experience.

To recap the theory, human beings must work their way up the pyramid of needs.

If they are not getting their physiological and safety needs met, they are not exerting energy towards finding love and belonging. But once they are fed and safe, they begin seeking human connection. Next comes esteem, confidence and respect. Finally, the human being can seek Self-Actualization in which he becomes more creative, spontaneous and better able to ponder and solve complex problems. 

Organizations exhibit similar stages of actualization. Many small businesses struggle in the early levels of the pyramid. They constantly strive to generate enough revenue to make payroll and provide safety for their organization, their owners and employees.

Many small business owners are stuck in a constant cycle of anxiety and tension and have very little opportunity to pursue growth.

If an entrepreneur can overcome the lower levels of sustenance, she can jump into growth, pursuing a healthy company culture, high esteem in the business community and, finally, actualization of the organization in which it becomes highly creative, driving additional growth and success.

Are you struggling with the day-to-day anxiety and tension of the lower levels of this pyramid? If so, evaluate the business you are in and determine what it will take (and if it is possible) to get to the next level of development in your organization.