Esteem Before Belonging: Rethinking Maslow’s Hierarchy Through the Lens of Emotional Integrity
Most of us grew up believing Maslow’s hierarchy of needs was fixed — that we must first be loved before we can truly love ourselves. But what if that’s backwards?
In this article, I challenge the traditional model by proposing that self-esteem, self-love, and self-acceptance must precede love and belongingness. Drawing on developmental psychology, emotional healing, and my own reflections, I explore how many relationships are unconscious attempts to heal childhood wounds — and how authentic love can only flourish when we come to relationships whole, not hoping to be completed.
“We cannot truly give or receive love unless we first know our own worth.”
VITO – Virtual Therapist Online
Meet VITO – Virtual Therapist: an emotionally intelligent AI built to make therapy radically more accessible. Over the past month, I’ve poured my soul into building this MVP from the ground up using cutting-edge Agentic AI. This early prototype shows a glimpse of what’s possible: empathetic support, scientifically grounded insights, and scalable care for those who need it most. VITO isn’t live yet — but it’s coming. And I’m looking for partners and investors to help bring it to production.
The AI Rush: Why Replacing Humans Isn’t Progress
As AI sweeps through industries, the narrative promises speed, savings, and innovation. But behind the automation boom lies a quieter, more dangerous shift—one that threatens our psychological wellbeing, our livelihoods, and our sense of human worth.
What began with tools like ChatGPT has evolved into a full-blown movement to replace—not support—human workers. CEOs celebrate productivity gains while thousands are laid off. Venture capital flows in. But who truly benefits when machines take over jobs, relationships, and meaning itself?
In this article, I explore how the unchecked rush to AI risks pushing society backward—down Maslow’s pyramid—into survival mode. And I ask: what becomes of our mental health, our communities, and our future when we trade connection for convenience? “AI should be used to enhance human life—not replace it.”
My recipe for managing stress
My approach to managing stress combines both biological understanding and emotional awareness. Here’s what I do: 1. Be aware of the biology and psychology involved. Understanding
The missing love language: Emotional Integrity & Efficacy
Introduction In his book “The Five Love Languages: The Secret To Love That Lasts” (Chapman, 2015), Dr Gary Chapman talks about five love languages that,