Climbing Maslow’s hierarchy of needs might sound straightforward—just check off each level and you’re good to go, right? Not quite. Real fulfillment isn’t just about meeting basic needs or striving for lofty ideals. Often, the deepest growth is hidden in the parts of ourselves we’d rather ignore—our shadows. Shadow work is about shining a light on these hidden aspects, not to “fix” anything, but to reclaim the energy and insights they hold. And here’s the twist: shadow work could actually be the key to unlocking each level of Maslow’s pyramid in a way that feels authentic and empowering. Let’s dive in and see how embracing our shadows can help us not just survive but thrive.