Ever wondered why it’s impossible to focus on lectures when you’re hungry, sleep-deprived, or one bad WiFi signal away from a breakdown? Blame it on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, the ultimate college survival pyramid disguised as psychology theory.
At the base, we have physiological needs: food, water, sleep, and that sacred 2 AM chai. Most students are stuck here, surviving on Maggi, hostel mess mysteries, and three-hour “naps” that were supposed to be all-nighters. Move up, and it’s safety needs : where reliable WiFi, mental peace, and praying your laptop doesn’t crash during submission hour become your daily rituals.
Then comes the need for love and belonging :because group projects, chai breaks, and emotional breakdowns require a solid support squad. Whether it’s your roommate, a random classmate turned bestie, or the canteen bhaiya who remembers your order, you need people. After that, it’s time for esteem needs : chasing validation through assignment praise, club leadership, or being the undisputed meme lord of the class WhatsApp group. Finally, at the peak lies self-actualization, aka “Main apni favourite hoon” level : where you start chasing dreams, maybe even choose psychology out of passion and not just pressure. This is where you’re thriving, not just surviving – exploring talents, creating things, and balancing your life like a boss (or at least trying). Maslow wasn’t just giving theory ; he was giving the ultimate college life roadmap.
So, which level are you stuck on today?
1) Hungry zombie mode,
2) Mentally exhausted marshmallow,
3) Lonely ghost of Lecture Hall 5, 4) Validation-hungry achiever.
5) Glorious, glowing guru of personal growth?
Whatever it is : breathe, snack, laugh, and remember: you’re doing better than you think.